I had an interesting disagreement the other day with someone about the historical relevance of moments in popular culture - which stemmed from a commentary on some recent ridiculous events (e.g. a now infamous Miley Cyrus performance and numerous other twerk related incidents). My argument was simply that although of course such things are incomparable to more impactful historical markers they can still shape perceptions of our generation. In thinking about sexuality I find a lot of inspiration from public personas and trends. In a way I feel studying them is almost equally as important as brushing up on my feminist literature and research.
I recently read Touré's new biography of Prince, I Would Die for You, where he discusses how pop culture icons are really reflections of the generations they perform for. We see something in them we deeply relate to even though on the surface reasons why may not be apparent. He says, " Stars entertain us. Icons do something much more. They embody us. They tell us something about who we are and who we want to be. They are both a mirror and a shaping force." In some sad ways fame and iconography have transformed into different monsters than they were in Prince's prime. We lift people up for a host of other reasons, but regardless I think there's still a lot of truth to that idea.
I just got a new book in the mail! I've been wanting to read The Second Sex for a while now. Reading Paglia has introduced me to a long list of feminist texts that I am just barely getting started on. Other than this acquisition I have very little news to share at the moment. My projects are gradually progressing and I'm still steadily working. Here's an in progress piece and close up of more collaborative work with Elizabeth Arzani:
