This article explores the evolving use of the word ‘lesbian’ within the LGBTQ+ community. It examines the historical and contemporary connotations, the impact of misappropriation and over-sexualization, and how individuals are reclaiming the term. The article also discusses the rise of ‘sapphic’ as an alternative identity and the importance of inclusive language and representation.
TernoCon 2024, themed “KKK: Kasarinlan, Kultura, Kasuotan,” brought together three renowned Filipino fashion designers to celebrate the country’s independence and showcase the beauty of traditional garments. The event, held at the Museo Del Galeon in SM Mall of Asia, featured collections that paid tribute to national heroes, symbols, and regional heritage.
London’s Saatchi Gallery showcases the evolution of fashion photography in its summer exhibition, ‘Beyond Fashion.’ The exhibition features works from nearly 50 photographers, spanning from the 1980s to the present day. It explores fashion photography’s shift from product presentation to artistic expression, showcasing themes of beauty, identity, and gender. One of the exhibition’s highlights is ‘Under Your Smell,’ an immersive installation by Swiss university students that interprets Jean Paul Gaultier perfumes through fabric prints. Paris-based photographer Jonathan de Villiers also presents his work, which challenges industry norms by juxtaposing luxury jewelry with everyday scenes. ‘Beyond Fashion’ celebrates the transformation of fashion photography into a captivating visual language and runs until September 8, 2024.
Growing up in a multicultural environment, children often face questions about their heritage and identity. This article explores the complexities and nuances of raising children in environments where different cultures intersect. The author discusses the importance of preserving one’s heritage while fostering open-mindedness and embracing diversity. The article highlights the need for dialogue, understanding, and shared experiences to create a sense of belonging for children.
For members of the LGBTQ+ community, coming out is a deeply personal and challenging yet liberating journey toward self-acceptance and authenticity. Amid societal and familial expectations, individuals navigate the complexities of suppressing their true identities or living in hetero relationships to conform to societal norms. The act of coming out, whether gradual or sudden, often involves self-acceptance, connecting with supportive LGBTQ+ organizations, and preparing for potential questions or negativity. While coming out can be an ongoing process in a heteronormative society, it is essential for protecting individuals’ psychological health and empowering them to live authentically.
In a candid interview with Rolling Stone, Grammy-winning artist Billie Eilish opened up about her evolving beauty looks and the personal journey they reflect. Eilish’s iconic blonde hair, debuted at the 2021 Met Gala, led to an ‘identity crisis’ as she felt disconnected from her true self. Despite the glamorous appeal of the look, it represented a departure from her authentic style. Her brother and collaborator, Finneas O’Connell, described the blonde transformation as a ‘coping mechanism’ for Eilish’s sophomore album, ‘Happier Than Ever.’ The artist’s social media reveal of her icy blonde locks in March 2021 garnered widespread attention, demonstrating the transformative power of her beauty choices.
Billie Eilish has revealed that her upcoming album helped her rediscover her true self. In a recent interview, the Grammy-winning artist said the album feels like a return to her first one, before the whirlwind of fame. Eilish explained that her breakout 2019 album was a time of both joy and confusion, and she has been searching for her old self ever since. The album is a collaboration with her brother, Finneas O’Connell, and explores themes of growth and identity. Eilish also shared her reasoning for not releasing any singles ahead of the album’s release on May 17.
A 40-year-old woman has finally decided to change her name legally after hating it her entire life. She was named “Charity” by her birth mother, and although her adoptive family considered changing it when she was adopted at 10, they decided against it. She eventually realized that most of her friends knew her by her gamer tag, Natalliya, and decided to make the change.
Richard Linklater’s Hit Man is a clever and sexy comedy starring rising star Glen Powell. While very original, it feels designed for box office success but may struggle on Netflix due to its emphasis on shared big screen experience. The film challenges expectations by denying the existence of hit men, setting up a metatextual exploration of myth and identity. Powell delivers an impressive performance in multiple iterations of his hit-man act, while his chemistry with Adria Arjona adds excitement and romance. Hit Man delves into the nature of identity, questioning whether we can become who we wish to be and the role of our inner selves. Linklater and Powell employ clever mise-en-scène to engage the audience in unexpected ways, creating a tense atmosphere. The film’s strengths lie in its shared theatrical experience, where the audience is collectively immersed in the projected images and questions our perception of reality.
Despite being born before the American singer, Taylor Swift from Scotland has faced disbelief and name-related difficulties. However, after sharing her story, she has gained support from fans who appreciate her genuine connection to the superstar’s moniker. Her story has also motivated others to consider changing their names.
