http://www.somethingyoushouldread.com/articles/article.php?id=456
This link is to a picture I came across when looking through some of Marc Jacobs' really strange ad campaigns. He's always trying to stay ahead of the game in the fashion industry and has some pretty unique ads. Here, I think he's trying to portray the truth about models in our generation.
Super models are well-known for having some serious weight issues, but I think it's getting worse and worse. As our country struggles with obesity, models are becoming even thinner. I know some girls who have struggled with anorexia, so it's tough to see so many ridiculously skinny models in photos and on the runway that are supposed to look good.
The photo is definitely trying to position itself to show us the truth behind modeling. It's a very straight forward picture. The fact that the model is wearing red and the background (and everything else) is just plain white are some signs that help indicate the position this ad is taking. It's really clear and there are no distractions in the picture- just the model puking herself. Even the angle of the photo is a sign, it's taken on the same level as her. There's nothing to hide, it's just honest. To me, this photo has a psychological effect that's truly trying to make us think about what modeling has come to and realize that there's a problem.
I agree that the modeling industry has some serious issues with self-image and what they think constitutes "beauty", but on the other hand, I'm not so sure if what the ad portrays is actually "against" the dangers of anorexia. It is a blunt, honest statement, but it also seems to be glamorizing bulimia with the high fashion model bending over the toilet in her heels and designer dress. I get that it's a step in addressing and confronting the issue, but I'm not so sure that young girls and women would get that message. Also, the article was kind of disturbing. It stated that Marc Jacobs aims to build an organic super model "farm" of some sorts. While that might be an aim to be a "healthier" anorexic, I just don't see how anorexia at all is healthy. He's trying to reform the way models eat and live, but it sounds like it's just another form of anorexia that might sound more socially acceptable because he slapped the word "organic" in the title. Also, model "farms" is very degrading. Women are not animals to be bred into "healthy" anorexic models. Overall, it's a really interesting idea and I enjoyed your post, but I personally think the entire modeling industry needs a big wake up call... dangerously skinny isn't beautiful, it's harmful to the models and to the girls who idolize them.
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