Due to the nature of my practice between art and writing that is strongly bonded to femme empowerment - my visual intake whether on Instagram, Tumblr or subscribed newsletters is a fierce hub of pinkness and diversity. Yet, why is it so, that I am on the edge of vomiting whenever I see another pad covered in red glitter resembling menstruation?
Guilty of romanticising periods myself (illustrated tampons and sparkles included), to my defence I am making an effort to move away from childish attempts of putting monthly bleeds, pubic hair and attitude on pedestal. Although there is nothing wrong with any of the things mentioned above, there is a thin line between celebration of womanhood and pure vandalisation of privacy (think Natalia Vodianova’s selfie with the pad or demonstration of used dildos while on your period). Spit outrage at me, but your choice for hairy armpits is not going to fix a salary gap or female genital mutilation.
My personal issue is, that I am among many other young women, stuck in between harsh male-dominated reality and online social outrage for girl power. Many of my girlfriends, although modern representation of femininity and independence, do not consider themselves feminists. On the contrary, all of the accounts I happen to follow - will post an illustration of clitoris without a second thought (and amen to that). With that said, many seem to struggle to find the golden middle, which is very simple. Let the men be a part of the conversation too.
Reserved feminism is not about a false pretence that women are equal to men, or being quiet when justice needs to be served. It is about a constant favour to conversation instead of attitude, and knowing that sometimes power lays in lipstick and a flower dress rather than cellulite and a slogan T-shirt. Burn me if you will.
p.s. On that note, join our emerging female collective in Milan. We are quietly changing the world one step at a time.