Why does self-objectification feel unavoidable online?
In the age of the creator economy, social media platforms have turned self-objectification into both an art form and a lucrative enterprise. The promise of empowerment and body positivity often masks a more insidious reality: the reinforcement of traditional beauty standards and the perpetuation of the male gaze. The aesthetic appeal of curated feeds and viral content reflects a troubling paradox where self-expression is encouraged but frequently bound by societal expectations. How much agency do we really have when algorithms dictate visibility, and are we unknowingly compromising deeper forms of empowerment for fleeting validation?
Among those questioning these dynamics is AUNCE, an artist whose music and message critique the commodification of self-expression in the digital age. Her latest single, "Beep Beep," serves as both a mirror and a challenge to the pervasive norms of self-sexualization online. "I think there are a couple of things at play," she explains. "The creator economy pits creators in competition with each other, all vying for attention. Algorithms, particularly on Instagram, favour content that garners engagement, and that often means sexualised imagery." This pressure, she notes, normalises self-objectification to the extent that even discussing it feels out of place.
AUNCE highlights the disconnect between intention and outcome in this dynamic. "I wonder if it feels aligned to their vision or values," she says, referring to creators who adopt these strategies. "If it does, that’s great, but if not, are people feeling pressure to present themselves in ways that don’t align? It scares me to think that to be a valuable artist, you have to fit traditional beauty standards, which are inherently racist and sexist."
The conflation of empowerment with aesthetic appeal also troubles AUNCE. "A lot of 'body positivity' marketing is still about the outward form — glossy skin, bubble butts, less wrinkles — rather than fostering a deeper connection with our bodies," she observes. While promoting self-love and acceptance, these campaigns often perpetuate the very insecurities they claim to dismantle. "Sometimes it seems as though empowerment and self-expression have become synonymous with bikinis and pseudo-sexual poses. It’s great if done with freedom, but who is the audience? Why does it feel empowering to twerk in a mini skirt?"
This line of questioning underscores a broader critique: the role of self-objectification in diluting artistic messages. "I’m sure there are many who balance both," AUNCE admits, "but I’m also sure that many artists make creative decisions based on what will cut through the noise, whatever the cost." For AUNCE, this cost is not just personal but cultural, shaping how young creators view success and self-worth. "For young artists looking at their female role models today, what does it mean to be successful? Often, it feels like a perpetuation of the male gaze in disguise."
In her work, AUNCE aims to challenge these norms without alienating audiences. Her creative process reflects this tension: "I think it’s important as an artist to put a mirror up to our times and give a glimpse of what the future could hold," she explains. Her approach is rooted in curiosity and observation, allowing themes to emerge organically. "I’m genuinely interested in what’s going on and have lots of questions — for myself and others."
"Beep Beep" is less a polemic and more an exploration of the complexities surrounding self-sexualization. By addressing these issues through her art, AUNCE hopes to spark dialogue and reflection. "Most of the time, I’m building worlds of sound that are an outward expression of multiple feelings and atmospheres. When I find words and lyrics, they’re a response to that world." This approach allows her to tackle cultural critiques while maintaining the emotional depth and accessibility of her work.
Ultimately, AUNCE’s perspective invites us to reconsider what empowerment and self-expression mean in the digital age. Are we truly in control of our narratives, or are we complicit in a system that commodifies our identities? By questioning these norms, both through her music and her insights, AUNCE challenges us to look beyond the illusion of empowerment and strive for a more authentic connection with ourselves and others.
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