I really enjoy creating stuffed dolls with genitalia. In fact, I'm shocked that there are not more anatomically correct dolls out there for children (or adults). It's not as though your child hasn't discovered that area between their legs. But we don't talk about that, or maybe we do but in a shame induced way: cover up! These are our *special* spots that only *certain* people should see. Yet this dogmatic approach serves to create a society where nudity is equated with sexuality.
Not all nudity is created (ahem... viewed) equally. Gwen Jacob took the issue of her toplessness in Ontario to court and was finally acquitted 5 years later (5 years!), paving the way for females across Canada to shed their upper garments. But even 15 years after this clarification in s.173 of the Criminal Code, how many females do you see taking advantage of this?
In a society that still has deep rooted hang-ups about sexuality and nudity/nudity and sexuality, I'm not really that surprised that when presented with one of my dolls, my adult friends immediately position and play with them in hyper-sexualized ways. Yet I am surprised that this is the ONLY way that my adult friends play with them. So this doll's junk is hanging out.... so what? That doesn't mean he wants to hump everything, it means he has a penis. Please don't think that I'm a naive prude, these dolls *demand* to played with in a sexual way--I fully recognize and encourage the sexual play that is offered with them--just be aware that perhaps, they too, like Gwen, just want to have the freedom to stroll down the road feeling the sun on their bits.
Monday, January 30, 2012
Saturday, January 28, 2012
Sir Arthur the 3rd (aka doll #37)
Normally when I sew (or craft, or paint, or draw), I like to be alone.
Getting into the zone with my project, I'm not very good company. But this is problematic, as I'm often so "in the zone" that I forget to eat, go to the bathroom or even drink water. Which leaves me feeling horrific as I crawl away from my newest creation.
Now, my new roommate is hooked on the idea of craft nights: invite the friends over, share food, drink wine and work on whatever project you want (this is usually that project that has been sitting on your to-do list for a few months--you know, that pile of supplies that makes you feel a little guiltier every time you walk by it).
The night rolls around.
Food: check. Wine: check. Project: check. Friends: check.
Great! Time to make shit!
I begin by struggling with my desire to hide in my room and get in that focused zone by myself, but that's socially rude, so I join the crew in the main area of our place. Many laughs follow, silly games, etc........ and I actually really like it. I complete another doll, albeit rather slowly, but at least I was eating.
That Thing I Can Pin On My Head
Made from cardboard, fabric, mesh, plastic flowers and thread.
Created for a gig themed "Eco-Chic"....... it's not very eco-friendly, but it sure is purdy.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)