Cynthia Morris Sherman is an American contemporary photographer known for her exploration of identity and gender roles. She gained recognition for her series "Untitled Film Stills" in the late 1970s. Sherman studied art at the State University of New York (SUNY) at Buffalo. Her work challenges traditional notions of beauty and representation. She has received numerous awards and honors for her contributions to contemporary art.
Style
Her work is characterized by her use of photography as a medium to create staged, narrative-driven self-portraits. She often takes on different personas, transforming herself through costumes, props, and makeup. Her photographs exhibit a strong attention to detail, capturing the nuances of each character she portrays. Sherman's exploration of self-portraiture and the construction of identity can be compared to the tradition of self-portraits in the history of art, such as Frida Kahlo. Her deconstruction of gender roles and examination of societal norms align with elements of feminist art movements.
Philosophy
The major ideas behind Sherman's work encompass personal, political, and social aspects. Her photographs serve as a critique of societal norms, gender roles, and the representation of women in art and media. Sherman challenges the viewer's perception and assumptions by presenting herself in various guises, exposing the constructed nature of identity. She explores themes of power, beauty, aging, and the complexities of self-representation. Through her art, she aims to prompt reflection and provoke discussions about the ways in which identity is shaped and perceived in contemporary culture.
Influences
Sherman was influenced by various artists, movements, and cultural phenomena. She drew inspiration from the early feminist movement and feminist artists such as Judy Chicago and Cindy Nemser, who challenged traditional representations of women. Sherman's interest in photography was influenced by conceptual artists like John Baldessari and the Pictures Generation movement. She also looked to the works of film directors, particularly the visual language of Hollywood films and film noir, which informed her renowned "Untitled Film Stills" series. Additionally, Sherman was inspired by art historical references, including the works of Old Masters like Caravaggio and the traditions of self-portraiture throughout art history.