- Sarah Anne Ward
So, I was on the always insightful and informative Bust Magazine website reading about Sarah Anne Ward’s photography period-art project. I’ve gotta say — I wasn’t too impressed.
I tended to agree with some of the comments that the Rorschach images on underwear, sheets and a panty liner aren’t that realistic. Period blood, after all, isn’t usually a bright red ink color — although wonderful for that Rorschach idea. But at the same time, it isn’t blue either, which it seems most pad and tampon commercials want you to believe because blood is well, gross. Blue water soaked into a tampon on TV is “beautiful” — so long as we stretch the definition of beautiful.
But here’s what I really liked about the Bust post: The Period Store.
It’s a subscription-based service timed to your menstruation cycle that, depending on how much you want to pay or what you feel you need, arrives each month in the form of feminine hygiene products from all over the world (the Korean eucalyptus pads that supposedly make you feel like you’re in a forest sound intriguing, but just not sure I want that forest feel, you know, down there). There are also other hygiene items you could receive, like sea sponges (I had no clue).
But the box also includes tea, medicine, something sweet with chocolate and the best thing — a 5×7 art print. Art is always good for what ails you — things based in reality delivered to your door, not Rorschach period blood made with red paint or ink. Cool and all, but not necessarily what I see every month.
This article appears in Jul 4-10, 2013.
What a stupid, offensive article.
Really, a? The photo might be questionable but the idea for the store seems sound.
If you look close, it’s not even a Rorschach. It’s a stylized art rendition of the uterus and other woman parts. The photo is loaded with symbolism.
I am happy to see this contribution to art (feminist) that dares to focus on some of the more intimate experiences of women. It will be uncomfortable for some to see, but enlightening and transformative for others..
If you don’t see the symbolism, and feel a need to squeal at the “blood”, try listening to Alice Cooper’s beautiful song ‘Only Women Bleed’.
Often controversial and misunderstood, this type of art has been accepted and seen for decades in major museums. For a look at the major work that helped to break the barrier, check out ‘The Dinner Party’ (1974-1979) by Judy Chicago: https://www.brooklynmuseum.org/opencollect…
I love those lacy panties!