Monday 26 March 2012

Independent woman.

So, after about a year and a half of waiting Mad Men's fifth series started last night. It has been one of my favourite shows for quite some time now, I have always been attracted to the subject of North America in this post-war era, I even chose to write my dissertation on it. 
My dissertation explored Hitchcock's Rear Window and the emasculation of men after the war. Despite studying fashion, I was always keen on incorporating other arts into my work and this dissertation topic just evolved over time, through my research. 
I came across this image the other day and I had an instant fondness for it. Women have evolved so much since the beginning of the 20th century in terms of equality and I think it's something they explore so well in Mad Men especially with Peggy Olson. Despite the obvious sexualisation of the blonde in this vintage painting, her empowerment of the man (who is quite clearly older than her) makes me secretly smile; he just looks so frightened. 
Screen shot 2011-07-05 at 12.00.35

9 comments:

  1. Like this a lot, currently studying feminism and it's amazing what popular culture does for sexism! X

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    1. I find it really interesting, I think I am a bit of an egalitarian. I am not very good with politics in terms of knowing my stuff but current affairs and news that always relates to equality (not just between sexes) always gets me riled.

      I do really love what you mention about popular culture, my dissertation was very much based around this. I used Hitchcock's Rear Window because Jimmy Stewart's character and Grace Kelly's roles are reversed with him having to stay at home whilst she went out to work and brought home the dinner. I looked into the popularity of all these new electric kitchen appliances that helped with the cooking and things like why John Wayne was so popular, topping lists .etc. It really is quite amazing.

      Thanks,
      Holly

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  2. I spent the entire weekend re-watching the fourth season of Mad Men, just in time for the Season 5 premiere! This picture made me smile too :)

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    1. Me too! Thank you for your lovely comment :)

      Holly

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  3. This would look amazing as a pop of colour on a blue wall. It's brilliant and powerful imagery.

    Lea x

    http://shebeginstosee.blogspot.com - - check my blog out if you like? :) x

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    1. It would look great on a canvas you're right!

      Thanks,
      Holly

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    ReplyDelete