Berlin-based designer Yang Liu makes a comment on the reductive nature of gender stereotypes with her new book 'Man Meets Woman.'
The playful pictograms depict common beliefs about the inner worlds of men and women. The simplistic nature of the drawings expose these beliefs for what they are: tired cliches. To further drive the point home, the pictorials are accompanied by clever, exposing titles. For instance, a man cooking, cleaning and child-rearing is labelled a "modern man," while a woman doing the same is assigned the epithet of a "house wife." The book shows the power of language to frame the same action or behavior in a completely new way, ultimately influencing our perceptions of gender.
Though some of the illustrations may seem minor and harmless at first, they reveal subtle, yet uncomfortable truths about how we regard men and women.
Opposing Gender Pictorials
Man Meets Woman Comments on Gender Stereotypes
Trend Themes
1. Subverting Gender Stereotypes - Opportunities to challenge traditional notions of gender roles in society and products/services targeting a more inclusive audience.
2. Power of Language Framing - Potential to create innovative marketing strategies that utilize language to influence perceptions and shape cultural norms.
3. Exposing Tired Cliches - Opportunities for brands to disrupt traditional advertising by embracing fresh and non-stereotypical narratives in their campaigns.
Industry Implications
1. Advertising and Marketing - Innovative campaigns that challenge gender stereotypes and promote inclusivity.
2. Publishing - Opportunities for publishing houses to release more books and content that challenge gender stereotypes and encourage critical thinking.
3. Design and Illustration - Opportunities to create visually impactful designs that challenge gender stereotypes and promote equality.