Definitions
The definition of ‘femininity’ according to Wikipedia is ‘a set of attributes, behaviours, and roles generally associated with women and girls’, however this definition has been criticised by many people throughout history, as it causes it to be a very general and constricting term. The idea of femininity is a social construct, and people are slowly realising (especially younger generations who are typically more open minded) how the term doesn’t only surround women- but people of all genders and it is slowly becoming a much more fluid term. Despite there still being many people who have very traditional views, many artists (such as photographers) have being bringing light to the topic and opening peoples eyes. Furthermore, the opposing word ‘masculinity’ is defined as ‘is a set of attributes, behaviours, and roles associated with men and boys’, the same definition but for men/ boys.
Although some people believe there is one ‘correct’ definition of both femininity and masculinity, each culture has its own views on the terms, some of which even completely contradict each other. Moreover, any human can portray both feminine and masculine traits. Gender stereotypes link in a lot with femininity and masculinity, which can be very harming to both sexes, especially when the people surrounding them pressure them into presenting a certain way. This is one of the reasons why younger generations have started to challenge these social concepts, creating new definitions and meanings for these terms as well as breaking stereotypes. I believe everyone has and needs aspects of both femininity and masculinity, since they are simply human values which are put into stereotypical sections.
Identity
the fact of being who or what a person or thing is.
In the past, identity had a very different and less fluid meaning however slowly over time, people began to express themselves much more openly and proving that your identity isn’t just who you are born as and can be developed throughout your life. Identity is mostly formed during your childhood, when your opinions are easiest to influence and when you gain experiences from the people around you. This is when your cultural identity is formed, learning your culture from your parents and close family members.
Your teenage years, are where the majority of your identity is formed, your gender identity and sexuality shaping with the influence of the people you surround yourself with as well as the internet. It is seen as the hardest time in a persons life, as dealing with puberty and the development of your identity can be overwhelming for some. It is especially hard for people who don’t feel as though they fit in with the heteronormality of society, and experience gender dysphoria and the questioning of their sexuality, especially if they have no support.
Femininity and Masculinity in Photography
Artists, especially photographs have has a massive impact on how society views femininity and masculinity, showing how traditional views and stereotypes aren’t always accurate and shouldn’t be used to define people. There were many photographers throughout history who created their own meaning for femininity and masculinity.
Claude Cahun was one of the main photographers that explored their own femininity and masculinity, as well as showing that it is normal to be a mix of both. Despite their work not being seen during their life and being destroyed by the Nazis (since Cahun was an activist during their life), they became a famous artist after their death in 1954 and still influence many to this day. They once said: “under this mask, another mask; I will never finish removing all these faces”, showing how they had many layers of both feminine and masculine traits. They experimented with clothes and hairstyles, showing both sides of their personality and identity.
Cindy Sherman is another important photographer as during her career she explored the stereotypes surrounding women in America during the late 20th century. She creates many different personas, creating self- portraits that resembled each of them. Through her photographs, she showed us how women are expected to be both beautiful and elegant while also being caring- in other words the stereotypical housewife.
