Empress of the Runaway by Nimisha Bhanot
Art is permanently changing according to new techniques and outlooks, however, it also reflects current world problems. Artists tend to express their views through their art, which evokes different kinds of response among the audience. The simplicity of bringing an issue to public attention through the artwork can create completely different opinions or provoke a discussion.
I have chosen “Empress of the Runway” by Nimisha Bhanot because it is an epitome of gender stereotype breaking, combined with appealing and magnetic selection of colors. The first time I saw a picture, I immediately thought about its uniqueness and a stunning look. I consider this artwork as an attempt to present the controversy of unusual beauty. There is no uncertainty behind the painting. According to Nimisha, her choice of clothing successfully matches the pose of a model and his profound gaze (Bhanot). To my mind, if a broad-minded person without preconceptions contemplates this artwork, he or she would be fascinated, as it breaks the borders between genders in a gentle and professional way. “Empress of the Runway” makes me question the concept of beauty as we perceive it in the modern world.
Apart from visual comprehension, this painting also appeals to opinions on certain social topics. It made me think about gender stereotypes, as nowadays the concept of gender features is rapidly changing. It is especially noticeable in Asia, because of the reassessment of current notion of masculinity and femininity (East Asia Forum). Some Asian countries, such as Thailand, are famous for transgender models, still having to adjust to common standards of women’s beauty. However, Nimisha’s work shows us that people do not have to fit it or follow the stereotypes. There is no specific restriction for men not to wear saris, paint their nails or use any other type of clothing or accessories, which are typical for women. In my opinion, that is one of the ideas the artist wanted us to think about.
Furthermore, the choice of the model inspired me to make a little research on transgender movement in Asia. As mentioned above, she likes the fact that the Asian LGBTQ community shares their experience via the Internet by using different forms of art (Bhanot). I completely agree with her, as it gets more noticeable that people become more open-minded accepting the style of different minorities. Transgender people are defined as those who do not relate themselves to their primary gender they are unhappy with it (“A Definition of Transgender”). Therefore, it is great to see less judgment and generalization which have become a display of prominent ignorance.
Additionally, I suppose that there is quite an undeniable separation between Western and Eastern LGBTQ movements. The unanimity can be achieved by spreading the ideas expressed in artworks similar to “Empress of the Runway”. Therefore, I appreciate the cooperation of models, who are by far also transgender activists, with talented artists to present their work to people of other cultures. Thus, they combine intercultural exchange and proclaiming their ideas.
In conclusion, I have considered many things while observing the picture. This artwork has a complex influence, involving breaking gender stereotypes and restating the idea of beauty, let alone admiration of colors and the pose of the model. Sometimes we underestimate the power of art and its ability to broaden our mind. I believe that one can become more tolerant when encountering different types of art. Paying attention to the background of an artwork and its purpose makes us able to adapt to the constant change of opinions. As for me, “Empress of the Runway” made a good impression, creating a more complex and acceptable vision of transgender community’s ideas and redefining gender roles in general.
