PD H. reviewed Working Women: An Appealing Look at the Appalling Uses and Abuses of the Feminine Form on + 14 more book reviews
Published by Harry N. Abrams, in 200 color photographs photographer Jessica Stang explores the use of the female form as kitsch, artifact or art form performing a function; from nutcrackers, door knockers, salt & pepper shakers, teapots, to door handles.
From book introduction by Lorraine Johnson, March 1984:
"The author as a woman, feminist and photographer was overwhelmed by the ubiquity and variety of the representations of the female form. Most of these Working Women were probably conceived, designed and/or manufactured by men. Why didn't they choose to exploit the male form instead? Is it simply that the "opposite" sex, with its curves, is intrinsically more decorative or is there some deeper, more sinister reason for subjecting women to such treatment?
Perhaps we can only wonder at the places where men's minds go, knowing that a "woman's work is never done." ...Whatever conclusion is reached...it is an eye-opener for all to see just how many everyday objects we take for granted, even when they have one overwhemling theme in common."
From book introduction by Lorraine Johnson, March 1984:
"The author as a woman, feminist and photographer was overwhelmed by the ubiquity and variety of the representations of the female form. Most of these Working Women were probably conceived, designed and/or manufactured by men. Why didn't they choose to exploit the male form instead? Is it simply that the "opposite" sex, with its curves, is intrinsically more decorative or is there some deeper, more sinister reason for subjecting women to such treatment?
Perhaps we can only wonder at the places where men's minds go, knowing that a "woman's work is never done." ...Whatever conclusion is reached...it is an eye-opener for all to see just how many everyday objects we take for granted, even when they have one overwhemling theme in common."
