Mirror, Mirror on the Museum Wall
Looking into a mirror illuminates what is existing in present time. While mirrors are a constant assurance of surface level identity, a mirror often flashes what's deep within an individual's subconscious self. Like looking into a mirror, artwork and artifacts radiate the culture of a time, while exposing the rooted motivation behind the piece. The Balboa Island Museum effectively displays the complexities which mold the individual culture of Balboa Island and surrounding popular culture. By providing various exhibits which inform the viewers about the critical influence of Hollywood on global culture and the historical background structuring modern beliefs, the audience can comprehend the unique process which…show more content… “Bathing Beauties,” published in 1922, illustrates the dramatic modification of bathing suits, contrasting modern beach attire. The image depicts non-revealing beach apparel, which consists of tunics, sleeves, hats, socks, and shoes. While providing insight into fashion trends of the early 20th century, “Bathing Beauties” also reflects the role of women in that society. The museum displays the 1920’s as an unparalleled era through capturing the transformation of the social and political status of women. Within this decade, women were granted suffrage in the 19th amendment and job opportunities for females expanded, launching women closer to gender equality. Throughout this era, women became empowered and practiced self-expression by wearing attire that revealed more skin.The photograph emphasizes female empowerment and self-sufficiency of women through illustrating a scene in which females are having fun without their husbands. Through capturing the sprouting independence of women, the photograph provides significant insight into the culture of the 1920’s. This “roaring 20s era” is characterized by the general feeling of excitement stimulated by the unprecedented change of culture. The photograph adequately expresses the modification of societal norms, while providing insight into the cultural reaction, contributing to the museum’s evident theme
