As a society, we are desensitized to images of female nudity. Often sexualized, naked women are seen on billboards, in magazines, on television, and frequently portrayed in art. This imagery has become so commonplace, we often overlook its potentially sexist elements.

 

     Conversely, images of nude males are rare; although the representations we do see tend to be just as narrow. Limiting images of men may also contribute to a constricted and sexist portrayal (Schroeder & Zwick, 2004). Perhaps this lack of male nudity plays a role in the prevailing over- sexualization of the disrobed human body and controls representations of male and female forms.

 

     Representations of Masculinity: Where are all the naked men? offers a space to explore the male image outside the confines of societal sexualization and objectification. Through a variety of art mediums, the show invites awareness, reflection, and conversation on the conflicts and contradiction of male identity and hopes to raise questions such as: Why are nudes so often women? Are we uncomfortable with male nudity? Do male and female artists see male nudity differently? Can art be sexual and if so, is that okay?