One of the things I love about conferences is the opportunity to learn new things. Some presentations put me to sleep, but there are always a couple that sparks my interest, or introduces me to something new. At this years women's studies conference, I was put to sleep a couple of times but I learned some wonderful new things.
At one presentation, I learned that all of the beautiful people that we see both in print and on television, are digitally enhanced. The beautiful women we strive to look like, don't even look as they appear. The ideal body image is unattainable because it does not exist. Makes me feel better anyway.
I also learned about a writer I had never read before. Grace Paley was fabulous! I loved her spunk and I have already ordered her book of poetry. All for this one line: "I was moved by the strong desire to kiss his explaining lips." In the context of the rest of the poem, this was so very moving. I will post the poem in its entirety when I receive the book.
At a session on art, I learned about an Iranian photographer that takes some very disturbing and beautiful photographs. Visit this site and see some of her work:The photo above is her work.
http://www.iranian.com/Arts/Dec97/Neshat/
3 comments:
I wish I could have seen your presentation. It sounds like you rocked the house. It was great to see you. Next time we have to have cake, in Jacksonville, and it has to be a longer visit that doesn't involve driving home.
It makes me feel better too to know that the ideal body image doesn't exist and that the stars are not that pretty in real life. However, I think Nicole Kidman is the exception. She's always stunning. I bet she looks fab at 3:00 am.
Thanks for sharing! Esp. the photography it is so stunning and disturbing and makes me want to see more.
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