Sunday, June 08, 2008

Swedish bed maker denounced for 'objectifying women'



We read:
"Bed maker Hastens has been criticized by Sweden's main advertising trade association for objectifying women in its latest global marketing campaign. "In the advertisement they clearly use a naked woman in an objectified way. It's unfortunate," said Pia Grahn Brikell, head of the Swedish Advertising Association, to the magazine Resume.

Hastens spokesperson Emma Sandsjo doesn't share Grahn Brikell's opinion of the advertisements, but admitted the company was ready for adverse reaction. "I think they are beautiful and artistic images. We've done tests ahead of time and know that the campaign will succeed internationally," she told Resume.

Source

7 comments:

Anonymous said...

So, women are not sex objects? Only males who have been "PC'ized and feminized" would think that. Even women think of themselves as sex objects, or at least wish they were.

Anonymous said...

Hello Good Gentles All!

When one considers the advertising copy that accompanies this photograph, "The Bed of Your Dreams", how can one be offended?

Dreams are frequently erotic and often surreal. I will certainly admit to having had some spectacular dreams. (And no, I will not discuss their content.)

Also, considered as merely a photograph this is an amazing piece of work. The composition, the lighting and the arrangements of the subjects are extremely well done. I do not know who is the photographer but a great talent is on display.

Finally consider the nude herself.

The female form is divinely inspired. The male form is, at best, untidy. ;-) Consider this photograph with a male nude and ask which would be better.

There is great artistry and even beauty in the male form but, speaking for myself, the graceful interplay of curve and shadow on the female form is truly the most awe inspiring sight I have ever seen. The stars themselves pale by comparison.

There is nothing sexist or objectifying in the appreciation or the enjoyment of the pinnacle of God's creation.

Pax,

InFides

Anonymous said...

Women objectify themselves and I would like to take the time to thank them for it.

Anonymous said...

It reminds me of "Ghost Busters" :-)

Anonymous said...

The ad reminds me strongly of Maxfield Parrish, the early 20th century illustrator. His works are today considered great works of art. Imagine how much poorer we would be if he had been accused of "objectifying" women back then!

Anonymous said...

Hello Good Gentles All!

Hello Anonymous!

A most excellent observation.

Here is a link to some of Maxfield Parrish's work.

http://parrish.artpassions.net/

How about Leni Riefenstahl? Different genre but her photographs are truly amazing and perhaps in a similar vein.

http://www.leni-riefenstahl.de/eng/photo/olympia/18.html

(Click Olympia if not already selected)

Consider photographs 2,3,6 and 7. What are your thoughts?

Pax,

InFides

Ariztophanes said...

It was a bed advertisement? :P