Judy Cooperman
photographer / USA
My photographs are part of an ongoing study, entitled “Visions of Beauty,” that captures real women of all ages as they make their way through the contemporary beauty culture. Women are constantly bombarded with instructions of what we must be, buy, do, think, change…the list is seemingly endless. The result is that women spend a great deal of time attempting to alter or recreate their identities, crossing over at times into obsession. I became interested in the "instructions" and the pressures, the expectations and the standards, focusing on how women respond to them.
As a visual artist, I felt that photography was the most direct way to explore these issues. Being concerned with the relationship between women and images of beauty, the use of images to explore this is both natural and significant. Maybe more important to me is that it allows you to isolate the little parts of life and see things that we normally might miss. Although my personal vision affects what I see and choose to photograph, the photographs are not manipulated or staged. The women seen in "Visions of Beauty" are not posed but rather caught in what is usually a private activity. I document women of all ages who have changed their appearance by temporary and minor adjustments to more radical plastic surgery. This reveals the processes and the tools that are part of these efforts, as well as the “essentials” that every woman wants and needs.
The photographs are in color and generally large-scale to force the viewer to really confront the images. The photographs capture a moment in time and the reality of the experience for these women. In this way, the emphasis is no longer on the final product and we truly see what women do in the name of “beauty.”
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Women in the Arts
First Place Award /
Judy Cooperman
by Donna Balma
| Niche, Global, Universal. The artists in the ARTROM Women’s International Art Competition share with us rich glimpses into the heart, soul, and body of humanity, nature, and culture. The various expressions in this body of work are all worthy of exploration and study. The range of truths that are placed before us present a strong, deep portrait of contemporary women’s art. The act of jurying was secondary to honoring the scope and conviction in this show. From every walk of life, from all over the planet, together they have created a multi-faceted whole, an impressive visual and emotional feast.
By participating in the ARTROM International Women’s Competition, each artist has contributed to our understanding – all around the world, committed women artists make inspired, imaginative art.
If we are lucky, we can experience with another, the simple act of adornment and decoration. The number one choice in the competition allows and invites us to witness the intimate sacred atmosphere of creating beauty amongst and for our selves.
This is a photographic portrait of an intergenerational moment where we can observe the symbolism in lipstick, the characteristic pose, and the vitality of the colour red, all part of the brave act of aging with our contemporaries in a world that is enamored with youth.
Trust, an incredible sense of trust, and a deep bond are manifest. The subject is safe and in kind hands.
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Artwork information and Pricing :
The Series "Visions of Beauty" is to be intended as a collective work which can be purchased or commissioned to be presented in other pertinent events or contexts.
Gallery Comment:
Judy Cooperman addresses issues that almost all women, at one point or another, must deal with; our relationship, as women, with the contemporary beauty culture. Cooperman documents delicate moments of
women concerned with their "beauty image" and the tools they use to enhance, alter or radically change their natural aspect. An interesting social comment that can be eye opening for some women and create an important inner debate.
If you are interested in further information about the artist please contact : elizabeth@artromgallery.com
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