Susan Anderson Illustrates the Craze of Beauty Pageants
Andrew Robertson — June 9, 2012 — Fashion
References: highglitz & sweet-station
The portrait documentary series by Susan Anderson titled 'High Glitz' takes an in depth look at the world of toddler beauty pageants. The images come from several pageants from all across America, capturing in vivid detail the amount of time and effort that is put into making these young girls look as glamorous as possible.
The pictures capture the somewhat bizarre subculture and craze that surrounds toddler beauty pageants. Young girls are encouraged to place an enormous emphasis on appearance and image. As quoted from sweetstation.com, "the beauty pageants represent a strange microcosm of America itself. Our own values of beauty, success and glamour reflected in the dreams of thousands of young girls."
While many of the pictures portray young girls smiling, one can witness a hint of boredom, frustration and angst behind the facade of maintained elegance.
The pictures capture the somewhat bizarre subculture and craze that surrounds toddler beauty pageants. Young girls are encouraged to place an enormous emphasis on appearance and image. As quoted from sweetstation.com, "the beauty pageants represent a strange microcosm of America itself. Our own values of beauty, success and glamour reflected in the dreams of thousands of young girls."
While many of the pictures portray young girls smiling, one can witness a hint of boredom, frustration and angst behind the facade of maintained elegance.
Trend Themes
1. Child Pageant Culture - Explore the increasing interest in child beauty pageants, and consider the social and safety implications of this controversial tradition.
2. Body Image Pressure - Investigate how young girls are influenced by societal pressures to conform to unrealistic beauty standards, and identify opportunities to promote positive self-image and self-care in young children.
3. Parental Involvement in Childhood Activities - Examine the role of parents in shaping their children's interests and extracurricular activities, and analyze the potential impacts of parent-driven pageants on child development.
Industry Implications
1. Child Psychology and Development - Offer research-driven solutions and resources to promote healthy development and positive self-image in young children.
2. Event Planning and Management - Develop innovative strategies for organizing kid-friendly events that promote creativity, teamwork, and socialization without placing undue emphasis on appearance.
3. Education and Parenting - Offer resources and guidance for parents to address concerns about their children's activities and interests and promote healthy habits and values.
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