Photographer Launches Anti-Anorexia Ad
Oliviero Toscani is a fashion photographer known for controversial ads for United Colours of Benetton, including the ad above. The photo, taken by Therese Frare, depicts the final moments of an AIDS-activist’s life. Toscani’s other work has prodded into more taboo areas such as racism, homosexuality, corporal punishment, war and religion.
Recently, he’s gone on to produce another ad-set that is finding mixed reviews amongst the public, and even some anti-eating disorder congregants. The ad adjacent and it’s counterpart, the back-side view of the model, are being displayed around metropolitan areas of Italy in an attempt to cause distaste towards the pro-anorexia movement and increases in eating disorders.
How does this ad affect those with eating disorders and even more specifically, those with anorexia? Personally, though I understand what the intention was, I find it to be a slap in the face. More so because of the almost coy look on the model’s face. This is supposed to disgust and draw me away from anorexia’s arms? I think all it does is laugh at the faces of those affected by the condition.
Something could be said for targeting the ‘wannarexics’ in the world, I suppose, but stereotypically those seeking pro-ana behaviour end up deep in ana’s clutches before they’ve realized it’s more than a diet. The ads, I think, are better suited for the parents and families of those starting to fall into the disorder. Because really, if you were fantasizing about being so small you disappeared, would this picture make you sick?
What do you think of the message it’s trying to portray?
November 16th, 2009 at 12:44 pm
I think the ad is benifical , to in form the public that behind the beautiful clothes and make- up that models wear , is a real woman , not to emulate, but to feel sorry for. To recognize that they are suffering, and need help. Models are made up for girls to want to be like. They become the wishes of many little girls.
I have a healthy little girl, and do not want her to worry about being thin , in order to be a model. I think the face on the model let’s the viewer make up their own mind.
The only thing I worry about on the add is the showing of the full nudity. It may be interpreted incorrectly. I realize that Europe is more open to nudity, however is it always important to show the entire picture in order to get a response??
Why is anorexia only related to woman? Does the illness not effect men? So when a man isto thin , what do we call it?
In the end I do like the ad, it makes me feel sad , to see what woman go through in life,
My best , David Thaler