Obscene acts in a private space: gestures of a standard affair in a sunny afternoon

We want sex more than ever: an age of over exposure, the private versus the public – the obscene is the only fascination that still stands

The Timeless Fascination with Obscenity

In an age marked by relentless exposure and an insatiable appetite for the obscene, the boundaries of public and private spaces continue to blur, giving rise to a culture where the most intimate acts are dissected and displayed for all to see. The paradox of our times lies in the fact that while we crave privacy more than ever, we are simultaneously drawn to the titillating spectacle of others’ indiscretions. This contradiction echoes the age-old debate about the nature of desire, art, and human experience—a conversation that can be traced through the works of renowned authors and artists alike.

Literary Explorations of Desire

The notion of obscenity as a fascination is not new; it has been a recurring theme in literature since the days of the ancient Greeks. Take, for instance, the poetic explorations of Sappho, whose verses reveal the intensity of desire and intimacy, capturing the essence of love in all its forms. Similarly, the works of Charles Baudelaire in Les Fleurs du mal grapple with the duality of beauty and sin, illustrating how obscenity can coexist with profound artistic expression. Baudelaire’s verses remind us that within the shadows of desire, there lies a deeper understanding of the human condition.

Art as a Reflection of Obscenity

In the visual arts, the exploration of obscenity often dances on the line between shock and beauty. The works of Egon Schiele, with their raw depictions of the human body, and Gustav Klimt, whose sensual imagery captures the essence of eroticism, showcase how art can elevate the obscene to a place of reverence. Contemporary artists like Tracey Emin, with her confessional installations, and the provocative works of Damien Hirst, challenge viewers to confront their own perceptions of desire and morality. In a world where social media platforms amplify the most scandalous acts, these artists mirror society’s fascination with the grotesque and the intimate, turning private moments into public spectacles.

The Modern Obsession with Exposure

Current events further highlight this phenomenon. The rise of influencers who monetize their private lives has created a new standard for intimacy in the public eye. The recent controversy surrounding viral videos that blur the lines of consent and exposure reflects our collective obsession with the obscene. As we consume this content, we are left to ponder the implications of our voyeuristic tendencies—do we find empowerment in the exposure, or do we simply perpetuate a cycle of objectification?

Voices of Liberation and Understanding

As we navigate this landscape of hyper-visibility, it is essential to consider the voices of authors who have sought to understand the complexities of desire. In her groundbreaking work, The Sexual Revolution, Shulamith Firestone challenged the norms of her time, advocating for a liberation of sexuality that transcends societal constraints. Similarly, bell hooks, in her exploration of love and sexuality, emphasizes the importance of mutual respect and consent in any intimate interaction, urging us to reclaim our narrative in an era of exploitation.

Confronting the Interplay of Public and Private

Ultimately, the interplay between the private and the public continues to evolve, leaving us to confront our own definitions of obscenity. The act of seeking pleasure in hidden corners of life reflects our desire to escape the constraints of societal expectations. Yet, as we indulge in the allure of the obscene, we must remain vigilant about the implications of our fascination. In a world where every act can be rendered public, we are reminded that the true beauty of desire often lies in its ephemeral nature—best savored in the quiet embrace of a sunny afternoon, away from prying eyes.

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Photographer: Costanza Musto

Talents: Pierciro Dequarto and Miriam Gagino wearing Lacoste and MM6 Margiela