This week floating around on my social networking I noticed this link shared a couple of times. Each time I saw it I was to busy or not able to click on the link. Finally yesterday I did click on the link and its was amazing. A great example of arts in medicine in a unique way, using art to explore and education, and also help empower and heal others.
The idea behind the art work itself is genius, the store mannequins are such a looked over piece. The idea of a "normal" body seen in a mannequin as we all know is so FAR from normal. I notice often in store how they have the clothes pinned to fit the mannequins because the mannequins are to small for even the extra small clothes. Just this week I was in the mall and one of the store fronts was changing out the display and I watched as a little boy pointed out the breast of the mannequin and giggled. This made me ponder as I walked through the mall, these mannequins are created to display and show the clothing or accessories that we want to purchase, but they are being put on a un realistic body.
I am not sure what made me think about this as I walked through the mall. Was it that I had scrolled past this article on my phone earlier, or the boy giggling at the breast but I pondered on the idea. I didn't actually click on the article until days later. When I watched the video I was so moved by the braveness of the models and the artist. This is a great example of art in medicine and sharing it with the world. The models showed healing seeing their bodies recreated. The people observing the store fronts also seem to experience healing. Its OK to stare at store mannequins and to appreciate peoples differences.
My creative practice this week came to be before I even knew I was doing it. I've spent time reflecting on what I see in front of me daily and what I don't and what I miss. Do I walk past people or store mannequins and not accept their beauty and uniqueness? I spent time writing about the question "Because Who is Perfect?" and a self exploration of myself and surroundings.
Please enjoy this article and video I promise it is worth the few short minutes.
http://jezebel.com/people-with-disabilities-react-to-mannequins-created-in-1475812519
