“A gender-equal society would be one where the word ‘gender’ does not exist: where everyone can be themselves.”
-Gloria Steinem
Throughout history, visual depictions of the human body have been a paradox and kaleidoscope of constant change. Its representations and meanings vary according to the culture and the time in which the body is imagined. So it is no surprise that artists across different eras have taken the body to extremes and reimagined it in every possible scenario. Every artistic movement seeks to break away from the conventions of the past and give new meaning to the world order.
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The visual elements in 23 represent a variety of sexual and gender traits and identities that complement each other naturally and ennoble the models’ features. Their bodies are brightly-lit by neon lights, and the colors seamlessly blend with each other, a silent testament to the fact that people’s identity is not made out of one layer, but a multitude.
Each subject reflects their inner self through their striking poses and the colors enveloping them. Some models look straight at the camera, fearless in their beauty, and these swirling neon colors enrapture the audience, beckoning them to look further and appreciate their uniqueness.
Moreover, their relaxed gestures, poses, and styles not only illustrate body diversity, but also reflect a harmonious array of voices and opinions.
The soft neon light hues blur the lines of traits that are thought to be either male or female. Art has the power to fade the boundaries and present new esthetic visions.
West’s advice is to admire everything good about people before making any judgments, as we all are made out of different colors and nuances. Let’s rip those labels society seems hell bent on sticking on our lapels and look out for new possibilities. The more we open our horizons, our minds expand and we are capable of defining ourselves and our bodies in whichever colors and terms we desire.
These photos show that words are never enough to depict the rich nuances and intricacies that form an essential part of our nature. Now, we can relate to these individuals more than ever, as they reflect what all of us are: humans made up by different shades of color, and whose beauty deserves to be appreciated in its own right.
23 will be out on April 26, 2017. Meanwhile, you can learn more about Maggie West’s previous projects on her Tumblr website, or official website.
Sources:
Paper Mag
Out Magazine
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