“Body Positivity” is a generalized, overused, and sometimes damaging label that often describes anything involving plus size representation. It also implies the notion that the only thing we can feel is unwavering confidence and anything less means we are ashamed of ourselves. However, being plus size is more complex than that. It is navigating your own and other’s emotions and interactions with your body. These emotions do not remain stagnant but rather exist on an ever changing spectrum ranging from hatred to contentment to love.
The zealousness attached to the “body positivity” loses the nuances of body neutrality. To be neutral is to be content and accepting of your reality. We often forget that when fighting an internal war of hatred, with reinforced societal pressure, that the reprieve of a cease-fire is a victory. There is power and reward for reaching a neutral state. However, it is not often celebrated due to its lack of glamour and marketability.
Portraits in this series acknowledge and illustrate an individual’s reflection of self. What is emoted is a mixture of empowerment, comfort, vulnerability, and neutrality. Thus, expressing an authentic portrait of our experience.
