Week 4

 

“Encounters”

      The term "male gaze," coined by feminist cinema theorist Laura Mulvey in 1975, describes how men and women are portrayed in literature and visual arts from a heterosexual, masculine point of view. It places a focus on the objectification of women, turning them into the passive objects of male viewers' desire. The male gaze theory highlights the need for more inclusive and diverse portrayals by criticizing the power dynamics, societal norms, and gender disparities present in media and culture.

After reading the “Oppositional Gaze” & “Patriarchy”, I realized I’m an example in my everyday of what opposing the gaze really means.

"The "gaze" has been and is a site of resistance for colonized black people globally. Subordinates in relations of power learn experientially that there is a critical gaze, one that "looks" to document, one that is oppositional. "

     Even the act of looking or being looked at can be a form of resistance, as it can be used to document, challenge, and oppose oppressive power dynamics. I like how the author encourages critical reflection on the role of perception and observation in the struggle for justice and equality. 

 "I was taught that girls could and should express feelings, or at least some of them. When I responded with rage at being denied a toy, I was taught as a girl in a patriarchal household that rage was not an appropriate feminine feeling, that it should not be expressed but be eradicated."

    I remember as it was today, being told to not sit down, burp loudly, not be too much in the streets playing, not be late outside, or do things that would be considered as "men's behavior." That I should sit down as a young lady, and act like one. There's no such thing as "acting like a man or acting like a woman", at least for me. Gladly I grew up not putting my guard down when it comes to listening to this kind of opinion. The only thing I stand for is to get my purpose and role in society to be a good person and not judge others. The way I behave according to my gender doesn't define who I am. 

     The gestures in these portraits, personalize my alter ego and empowers the gaze. It’s a call to feel confident and raise your head.