The damsels in Modern Disney Heroines by New Zealand-based illustrator Alana May all have one thing in common: they are not conventional Disney princesses. With this subversive project, the young illustrator decided to turn traditional and sometimes sexist Disney stereotypes on their heads, giving these ladies ‘real-life problems’ by portraying them in a modern-day context.
Alana’s intriguing images break down notions that women have to be perceived as ‘beautiful’ to be rescued by a man, as is the case in the ‘Snow White’ story. Alana’s depiction instead features a modern-day Snow White as an unattractive character being rescued after choking on an apple by a man who looks ‘repulsed.’ Other more literal metaphors in Alana’s work feature the stories of Jasmine from ‘Aladdin’ in a vending machine ready to be won as a prize.
These subversive drawings make us think what life would be like for Disney princesses in the real world.
Realistic Princess Depictions
Modern Disney Heroines by Alana May Features Modern Day Princesses
Trend Themes
1. Subversive Disney Princesses - Opportunity for artists and illustrators to challenge traditional stereotypes and reimagine iconic characters.
2. Real-life Depictions - Interest in portraying fairy tale characters in modern-day settings, offering a fresh perspective and relatability.
3. Feminist Revisionism - Growing demand for reimagining princess narratives to empower women and challenge gender norms.
Industry Implications
1. Art and Illustration - Opportunity for artists to create new, innovative interpretations of well-known characters.
2. Entertainment and Media - Potential for film studios, streaming platforms, and publishers to explore alternative narratives for princess stories.
3. Fashion and Merchandise - Demand for merchandise featuring non-conventional princesses, giving rise to new fashion and lifestyle products.