Femininity as Masquerade

Abstract

This thesis outlines my artistic practice from the trait of femininity and self-image. It discusses my influences from films and female representation in pop culture. Along with these influences, I connect them with theories based on feminism and voyeuristic cinema. Over the next 7 chapters, I will discuss different theories like Judith Butler’s Gender Trouble, Joan Riviere’s Womanliness as Masquerade, Laura Mulvey’s theory on the male gaze, and the introduction of the female gaze. Outlining these theories, I provide examples from other female artists as well as scenes from popular films and tv, and how they directed into my artistic practice. My artwork is connected in a way in which they all include different personas. These women I create and am influenced by embody strong feminine traits. Their femininity represents as a blessing and a curse. In one way, these women use their femininity in a sense of pride and self-representation. In the other, they question who they are if weren't taught that femininity defines them. The films and diaries I produced contain many layers regarding femininity, religion and feminist theories.