TITLE OF THE ORIGINAL ARTWORK: The Birth of Venus

ARTIST OF THE ORIGINAL ARTWORK : Sandro Botticelli

MESSAGE : Botticelli's Birth of Venus is one of the most treasured artworks of the
Renaissance. In it the goddess Venus (known as Aphrodite in Greek mythology) emerges
from the sea upon a shell aligned with the myth that explains her birth. Her shell is pushed
to the shore from winds being produced by the wind-gods in amongst a shower of roses. As
Venus is about to step onto the shore, a Nymph reaches out to cover her with a cloak.Venus
is illustrated as a beautiful and chaste goddess and symbol of the coming spring. Her
depiction as a nude is significant in itself, given that during this time in Renaissance history
almost all artwork was of a Christian theme, and nude women were hardly ever portrayed.
Botticelli paid much attention to her hair and hairstyle, which reflected his interest in the way
women wore their long hair in the late fifteenth century.  He gave Venus an idealized face
which is remarkably free of blemishes, and beautifully shaded her face to distinguish a lighter
side and a more shaded side. Of obvious importance in this painting is the nudity of Venus. 
The depiction of nude women was not something that was normally done in the Middle Ages,
with a few exceptions in specific circumstances.

TITLE OF THE MODIFIED ARTWORK: The Birth of Plastic Surgery

MESSAGE : People have always wanted to look like society’s ideal. In the late 19th century,
Irish immigrants in New York got “English” noses to transform themselves into
Americans. The ideal appearance in society is always based on the appearance of the
dominant group. This acceptance of plastic surgery, as well as the value of appearance over
ability, affects youth. From a young age, children play with toys like Barbie dolls and burly
action figures, with bodies that are physically impossible to achieve. Exposure to these
“ideals” is damaging to the self-esteem of youths. Cosmetic surgery is no longer limited to
the wealthy; banks offer loans for it. As plastic surgery becomes more mainstream, it’s
interesting to ponder whether the value of beauty will decrease as it becomes something
that anyone can buy.  Vanity in our culture has increased and become more acceptable.
People are more open about their desire to be attractive, and plastic surgery no longer has
a negative connotation. Happiness can be achieved, but not through surgery. People need
to embrace their differences instead of trying to erase them. Only when we are at peace
with ourselves will we be truly radiant.