Self Portrait Project Collage - Ricky Ochoa

Ricky Ochoa, Modern Masculinity

This is my Self-portrait collage known as Modern Masculinity; I made this with ripped magazines, glue line art, and superficial character designs similar to a comic to make it happen. The pictures of men being involved with family and supportive roles on the second page and a man being comforted by the children on the first page play a part in challenging traditional masculinity. My message to redefine masculinity in the modern world was inspired by Yoko Ono’s performance art “Cut Piece” and the Collab of Yoko Ono and John Lennon’s art piece, “Bed-in for Peace.” 

Yoko Ono and John Lennon’s “Bed-in for Peace” art piece shows them advocating for peace during the Cold War. They have been able to achieve this ever since they met. My piece shows men being allowed to be supportive, like John Lennon supporting Yoko Ono’s ambitions.

Contemporary media plays a role in public opinion by focusing on specific issues and taking a stance on how they should be solved. In the case of Yoko Ono’s performance art “Cut Piece,” she challenged society on how women are viewed as objects that need consideration. Contemporary media influences ourselves and others by tying an object or person’s performance to an identity. Yoko Ono’s performance in “Cut Piece” shows how her standing still and letting people cut her clothes off represents how quick women are to be objectified by society since her worth is tied to appearance.

My self-portrait shows alternative ways masculinity should be expressed in the modern world since I grew up with positive role models from men and women. It connects to Yoko Ono and John Lennon’s “Bed-in for Peace” art piece since they have supported each other since they met, advocating for peace during the Cold War. It represents the equality of men and women when working together.

Inspirations for my art piece

Yoko Ono, "Cut Piece"

Yoko Ono and John Lennon, “Bed-in for Peace”