Blog #4 - Stereotypes

In the photographs The Ohio Project and Gevonni Davis, both present a member from a different race in a light that doesn't coincide with their stereotypical representations. Through the use of clothing and makeup, the artists are able to depict exceptions to racial norms.

The Asian girl in The Ohio Project is dressed in a tube-top and short skirt, a fashion that can be described as "white trash." Her hair has even been dyed blonde, another trait of Caucasians. These elements present a race in a scenario that one would not expect to see them. The same goes for the young man in Gevonni Davis. The man has a more feminine appearance, complete with a shaven-face and distinct eyelashes. With the aid of the necklace, makeup, and thin eyebrows, the photo presents a black homosexual man as opposed to a black thug. These pictures illustrate difference as a social construct by exhibiting race in a more human aspect. The Asian girl and the black man are made more believable when they are dressed more true to their depicted personas and less like their racial stereotypes. These personas present the realization that not all people are prone to their designated stereotypes, whether they be ethical or racial.

I guess one could say that these are "fish out of water" photos . . .
Racial Reversals in Television