Hannah Wilke was known for her attempt to create a uniquely feminine imagery through photography. The title of this piece suggests to me a confrontation with and satire of idealized notions of female fragility. The presence of the birds, as well as the sleeping pose of the model, calls to mind imagery of pastoral innocence and stylized virginity. The woman, however, must be in at least her late twenties, and, suspiciously, she is only covering one breast--her modesty may be affected. "Handle with Care" is a parody, and it ultimately has an unmistakably staged look to it.
No comments:
Post a Comment