Page 75 - Reader's House Magazine Issue 52

Cecile Plaisance masterfully fuses playfulness with profound feminist statements, delivering bold, provocative art that champions women’s empowerment.
The Unexpected Artistic Path: From Finance to Photography
Plaisance’s background in economics and finance played a minimal role in influencing her artistic journey. From a young age, she was enthralled by images of women in magazines, a fascination that transcended into her adult life. Upon exiting the financial world, she embarked on a new adventure without knowing where it would lead. The transition marked a complete departure into a realm where she could explore
and depict the transcendental beauty of women—an endeavor she is passionate
for women to dress as they please, to embrace beauty, and to exercise choice in self-expression are central rights. Plaisance uses her Barbie’s ultra-feminine form to underscore these rights, rejecting societal and religious dictates that restrict women’s freedom and movement. In her work, the provocation serves as a powerful tool to amplify her messages.
Unveiling Female Autonomy through Provocative Imagery
The decision to undress Barbies in her art is deliberate, illustrating that in a liberated world, a woman should have the autonomy to choose how she presents her body. This statement critiques the religious laws in specific regions that render women invisible and subordinate. Plaisance’s work is a call to challenge these outdated norms and support women’s autonomy and visibility.
Evolving Artistry: From Barbies to Human Models
Now working with human models, Plaisance continues her advocacy for women’s freedom. The process with human models differs as it be- comes a collaborative engagement, where ideas and support for her project are mutual. Models, like Marisa Papen, push boundaries further, emb- racing a lifestyle of freedom that resonates with Plaisance’s artistic vision. The exchange with human subjects enriches her work far more than her previous endeavors with Barbies.
The Allure of Lenticular Prints
Plaisance employs lenticular prints to enhance the viewer’s experience, adding a dynamic and interactive element to her art. This medium, reminiscent of childhood nostalgia with its shif- ting images, acts as a “car stopper,” compelling people to engage with her work. Through pieces like “Fuck the Rules,” Plaisance delivers strong, explicit messages—depictions of rebellion against constricting cultural and religious norms. Her work, bold and thought-provoking, reaffirms her dedication to advocating for women’s libera- tion and autonomy.
Cecile Plaisance remains a formidable force in contemporary art, her work inviting viewers to reexamine and celebrate the multifaceted nature of femininity.
about.
Embracing Barbie as a Medium of Feminist
Expression
nostalgic nod to her childhood and a humorous engagement with
feminist themes. Through Barbie, Plaisance proposes that femininity can be both a playful and provocative domain for feminist expression, challenging preconceived notions of feminism.
A Balance of Playfulness and Provocation
For Plaisance, balancing the playful and pro- vocative elements of her Barbie-centric images is essential in conveying deeper messages about femininity and women’s rights. She advocates for gender equality but insists that women should not abandon their femininity. The freedom
The shift from capturing travel
scenes and objects to focusing on Barbie dolls
was a natural progression
for Plai- sance. Her passion for
photog- raphy has been lon- gstanding, significant- ly since the
birth of her children. It wasn’t until
her time in photography
school, when a free-themed
exhibition allowed her to pay homage to
Helmut Newton, that Barbie came into focus.
With numerous dolls at her disposal, this became both a
ART & CULTURE
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