Week 6: Obsession, MANnequin

So this week’s theme is Obsession.  Common definitions (because yes, I looked it up) include: “compulsive preoccupation with an unwanted feeling or emotion” and “compulsive, unreasonable idea or emotion.”  So with this word, there is a connotation of lack of control in a situation – a duality of opposites – thinking one thing and thinking you don’t want to be thinking it; feeling an emotion and acknowledging that you feel it and aren’t supposed to be feeling it.

What I love about this picture is the subtle shadows on both the mannequin and Sarah’s faces.  Somehow, the light hits their bodies but misses their face, and I love the metaphor in that – that obsession is dark, and takes root in the mind.  I love that you can’t see the mannequin’s eyes – or Sarah’s eyes.  To me, it leaves me wondering what Sarah is really thinking. 

Of course this picture is a joke.  Sarah was being silly and sexual with a funny mannequin with two right hands.   But, I like the idea of playing with when that joke or silliness goes to far, and becomes real – for at least one party – whether it is the person doing the action, or the observers.  I like the duality of considering, “Wait, is this serious.  Is she serious?” 

Lastly, the connotative color in this picture speaks to me.  The predominant color palate in this picture is white and grays – a lack of color and vibrancy.  But Sarah’s red shirt pops, drawing the viewer to her first, then taking in the rest of the picture.  In this way, the mannequin is almost a surprise.