🤖 👙✨Beauty in the Eyes of AI: Reimagining PerfectionNavigating the New
Aesthetics: Beauty Standards and Diversity.
Hello friends here is your Friday dose of my unfiltered, slightly quirky musings!
Have you ever wondered how artificial intelligence is reshaping our perception of beauty?
This week, something on social media, and I couldn’t not share my perspective on this. Even though I’ve spoken openly about my issues with ED in my last newsletter and the challenges related to self-image due to AI-generated images, videos, and influencers here.
I wanted to share another perspective on this topic, many of you are already familiar with my involvement in female empowerment initiatives in the tech and fashion sectors, specifically Girls in Tech Brazil and Women of Wearables. However, it's crucial to recognize the existence of Radical Feminism, which often portrays women primarily as victims of a male-dominated society. This narrative, at times, fosters a sense of powerlessness among women and may discourage a more empowering and agency-focused perspective.
Another controversial aspect relates to the rejection of sex work and pornography. While some radical feminists vehemently oppose these practices, viewing them as inherently oppressive, I find myself skeptical of this view. It appears to disregard the choices of individuals engaged in these professions and potentially infringes upon their rights to autonomy over their bodies, imagination, and desires.
Recently, I stumbled upon a video on Instagram and it made me think.
A post shared by @danaemercer
While I certainly understand her concerns, it's worth considering an alternative viewpoint. If Roman and Greek artists could dream about perfection, why can’t we, it doesn’t make us less perfect, the human race has flaws, especially ethical ones, but we are all beautiful too! arent we?!
If we reflect on the past, the AI-generated pursuit of perfection has historical parallels with the artistic ideals of beauty that have transcended time. Renowned artists in both Greek and Roman civilizations, including figures like Praxiteles, Phidias, and Michelangelo, have celebrated the human form through sculptures that became iconic representations of physical and aesthetic ideals. A few examples throughout history, accomplished artists have played a pivotal role in shaping and redefining our understanding of idealized beauty. Figures like Praxiteles, Phidias, and Michelangelo are celebrated for their contributions in this regard.
Praxiteles: an ancient Greek sculptor, is renowned for his exceptional skill in capturing the essence of idealized beauty. His work often featured sensuous, graceful figures, particularly in his representation of Aphrodite. His "Aphrodite of Knidos" became an iconic symbol of beauty and perfection, setting a standard for depictions of the female form.
Phidias: another ancient Greek master, is best known for his work on the Parthenon sculptures in Athens. His statues, such as the statue of Athena Parthenos, embodied an idealized version of divine beauty. His craftsmanship emphasized balance, harmony, and proportion, ideals that continue to influence artistic representations of beauty.
Michelangelo: In the Renaissance era, Michelangelo was a visionary artist who brought idealized beauty to new heights. His iconic "David" sculpture is a testament to his ability to carve out perfection from a block of marble. Michelangelo's work celebrated the idealized male form with its exquisite proportions and remarkable detail.
Sandro Botticelli’s poetic sense of beauty captivated the Florentine court. But it was his subject matter which distinguished him from other artists. He was one of the first Western artists since classical times to depict non-religious scenes, and Botticelli’s inclusion of a near-life-size female nude was revolutionary.
These artists, along with many others throughout history, have left lasting legacies in the realm of art and beauty. Their work serves as a constant source of inspiration, setting benchmarks for artistic ideals. It's important to note that the pursuit of perfection in male and female form was an exercise of their imagination and improvement of their work and world views. These ideals of beauty have been redefined over time and continue to evolve with changes in society, culture, and artistic expression.
Within this context, the AI-generated pursuit of perfection can be seen in a different light. Rather than viewing it as an attempt to negate or replace human imperfections, it can be regarded as a form of artistic expression and experimentation. It becomes a canvas upon which artists and creators can explore and push the boundaries of what is traditionally considered beautiful while celebrating the diversity of the human experience.
I firmly believe in prioritizing global concerns, stopping wars and massive killings around the world, and especially the non-spoken war that Brazilians live every day, but we are not on global TV, because black and poor people don’t deserve media attention, since we are a 3rd world country in Latin America. Making sure that every kid has food on their plates it’s a priority.
Before white-cis women (KAREN’s*) get mad because people are using AI to dream about perfect female and male bodies!
That’s all I did in fashion school. I draw perfect curves, male and female bodies that were close to Venus and David aesthetics, always criticized by my fashion teachers because they were too curvy or muscular, I've lived in my aesthetical fantasies for 4 years. But when I started working in the fashion industry I made sure to dress real people of all sizes and shapes to make them feel happy about their bodies. My focus has been on embracing and celebrating real people. The fashion industry, when employed as a means of empowering individuals of all sizes and instilling body confidence, makes a remarkable contribution.
This approach reinforces the idea that beauty is diverse and shouldn't be confined to a narrow standard. It resonates with the Renaissance ideals of artists like Sandro Botticelli, whose "Venus" painting celebrated the concept of beauty and the feminine form in a unique and symbolic manner.
The idea of embracing imperfections is a profound aspect of the discussion surrounding the pursuit of idealized beauty. It acknowledges that human beings are inherently imperfect, and this imperfection is an integral part of the human experience. Our uniqueness lies in our individual flaws, vulnerabilities, and idiosyncrasies. This perspective appreciates that beauty can take on various forms and is not confined to a one-size-fits-all standard.
Within this context, the AI-generated pursuit of perfection can be seen in a different light. Rather than viewing it as an attempt to negate or replace human imperfections, it can be regarded as a form of artistic expression and experimentation. It becomes a canvas upon which artists and creators can explore and push the boundaries of what is traditionally considered beautiful while celebrating the diversity of the human experience.
In a complex and multifaceted world, there's ample space for both creative exploration and societal responsibility. While some may argue that the pursuit of AI-generated perfection might exacerbate unrealistic beauty standards, others contend that it represents an extension of human creativity. Achieving a balance between these varying viewpoints is essential to harness the benefits of technological advancement while ensuring that we stay grounded in our dedication to addressing societal challenges. My experience within the fashion industry serves as a practical example of how these ideals can harmoniously coexist. Ongoing conversations that appreciate the nuances and seek holistic solutions are vital in navigating this intricate terrain.
Would love to hear on views on that, in case am I am failing to see another perspective.
•Spotify on repeat: MC Soffia
(born in Sao Paulo, Brazil ) is a Brazilian rap star. She gained fame for her lyrics, empowering young African-Brazilian women. She rhymes about the country’s long history of slavery and racial division and challenges the way black people are represented. She performed at the opening ceremony of the 2016 Rio Olympics.🇧🇷
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