Renata Dutree
Pride and Prejudice
Gender bias, gender roles and stereotypes can affect everyone negatively. In our society the normative narrative of “male” is tough and assertive and “female” equals tender and weak. Manhood needs to be proven continuously and can be lost. Expectations for how men should behave in order to maintain this manhood status, where all things feminine need to be avoided, have a detrimental impact on allowing men to fully express themselves. Research demonstrates that men too face backlash if they don’t adhere to masculine gender stereotypes. Showing vulnerability, displaying empathy, expressing sadness and acting nicer can lead to lower status, less income and potential career derailment. This ongoing series is intended to challenge the viewer with social constructs that are centred around masculinity and femininity. With my “female gaze” I only see beautiful people, who can dress, think or act in a traditionally feminine manner and be anything they want. There is no correlation between expressing femininity and someone’s competence.
