Re-appropriating the gaze : challenging the positions held by the viewer and the viewed and their respective gender associations in a digital world

Abstract

The purpose of this dissertation is to focus on the following question: is the reappropriation of the gaze feasible and can the positions held by the viewer and the viewed and their respective gender associations be challenged? This dissertation aims to analyse and explore the ways in which the gaze has been shaped by patriarchal constructs and attempts to reconfigure ways in which the gaze can exist outside of such confines. Art, advertisement, film and social media all contribute to our perception of the world and gender relations and thus our perception and representation of women in art and society. Through the discussion of various theories and works of art, this dissertation analyses the impact that the male gaze has had on the stereotypical representation of women and the role of the female gaze in reaction to this patriarchal construct. The project explores the concepts of stereotypes, voyeurism and surveillance by means of a satirical interactive installation and performance piece. Ultimately, this dissertation aims to comment on the juxtaposition of power between the seer and the seen, from a feminist perspective.