Sometimes the most harmful body image messages come from the most subtle of origins. Take a department store mannequin, for example. Because they often blend into the background, and do not move or speak, many of us do not realize that they can have an impact on our perceptions of body image. But they do - mannequin trends actually change over time. They are becoming taller, slimmer, while their bust size grows larger.
Imagine Me Beyond What You See
In response, International Association of Eating Disorders Professionals Foundation (iaedp) launched last year an annual body image art competition, an art-based campaign using mannequins to bring awareness to body image messaging and eating disorders.
Titled "Imagine Me Beyond What You See," the competition encourages treatment centers, private practices with art therapists, as well as individuals and students to submit a mannequin, using mixed media and other forms to alter and interpret the piece in an artistic manner.
With the help of staff arts instructor Spring Olson, our residents and clients have worked together to create a breathtaking submission to this year's competition:
The Magnolia Creek entry features the mannequin covered in colorful flora, with positive messages like love, hope, courage, desire, 'in full bloom', 'thankful for beginnings', and 'thirsting for growth'.
The winning entry will be spotlighted at iaedp's annual symposium this March and auctioned off, with proceeds going towards the iaedp foundation. Of course we're biased, but we think we have a serious contender here!
Click here for more information about the iaedp competition.
Click here for more information about the iaedp annual symposium.
