Diverse and Inclusive

Representation
Defining Diversity and Inclusivity in Visual Culture:

Unveiling the Rich Tapestry of Identities in Visual Narratives

Diversity in visual culture refers to the representation of a wide range of identities,
perspectives, and experiences within various forms of visual media. This encompasses
recognition of the richness and complexity of human identity, which includes factors such as
race, ethnicity, gender, sexual orientation, age, ability, socioeconomic status, and cultural
background. Over the past few years, diversity has become a buzzword guiding marketing,
brand values, and content creation.

Inclusivity in visual culture: In the realm of visual culture, inclusivity refers to accepting a
diverse range of identities, perspectives, and experiences. It challenges traditional norms by
ensuring fair representation and cultivating a collective recognition and celebration of
society's diverse richness through various artistic mediums. This portrayal ensures the
authenticity and inclusiveness of people of different races, ethnicities, genders, and identity
groups. It enables diverse narratives, breaking down stereotypes and contributing to a more
accurate portrayal of the human experience.
Few examples, as shown in the above images tells how diversity in visual representation is
being consciously targeted by all kind of media. Savage X Fenty by Rihanna, one of the
pioneers of DEI, launched a pride campaign that is more culturally inclusive than ever before.
Hindustan Unilever, through its Dove and Surf Campaign, showcases cultural diversity and
representation. The movie Kantara shows Karnataka’s (a state in India) cultural artifacts,
beliefs, and heritage. Apple conveyed its ‘accessibility’ feature, demonstrating its benefits by
including ‘specially abled’ humans in the campaign.

Breaking Stereotypes in Visual Storytelling

Breaking Stereotypes in Visual Storytelling entails using creative narratives to dismantle

preconceived notions. This approach cultivates a more authentic representation of diverse
experiences by defying traditional norms, challenging viewers to reassess and broaden their
perspectives. It cultivates a visual landscape that defies stereotypes and embraces the
complexities of human stories.
Explicit Meaning: An artist named “Kid Cudi” giving a confident vocal performance on stage
wearing a skirt.

Implicit Meaning: The artist might identify as non-binary.

Explicit Meaning: Sakshi Malik, in the left photograph, and Vinesh Phogat, in the right
photograph, two Indian Wrestlers, are being dragged away by the police.

Implicit Meaning: The wrestlers might be publicly protesting against the government, and
hence, they’re being retrained by the police. These women appear to be very strong, as
several policewomen are struggling to handle them.

Intersectionality in Visual Culture: A Multifaceted Lens of

Representation and Identity

Breaking Down Binary Narratives

Historically, binary narratives dominated visual culture, oversimplifying complex human

experiences. Intersectionality calls these binaries into question, creating a richer tapestry of
representation. Rather than relying on dichotomies, visual representations can explore
identity intersections, recognizing the unique experiences of individuals who simultaneously
navigate multiple facets of their identity.
(Netflix: Sex Education)

Explicit Meaning: Two men are seated in a laboratory setting in the photograph. One is of
Caucasian descent, while the other is of African descent. The person of African descent can
be seen using beauty products, whereas the other subject does not appear to have used any.
The image's overall composition is dominated by a cool color palette.

Implicit Meaning: The person of color appears to be more open about their gender identity,
whereas the Caucasian subject appears to keep it more private. Both people seem to
be romantically involved. The cool color palette and their body language suggest a discord
between them . The person of Caucasian descent appears to be trying to reconcile with the
person of color.
(Citi Bank: True Name Campaign)

Explicit Meaning: This is an advertisement for Citi Bank, which consists of two images. The
image on the right portrays two male subjects, and the image on the right portrays two
female subjects. All the subjects appear to be The advertisement says that Citi bank is
providing services for changing the name on the Citibank credit card for transgender and
non-binary people.

Implicit Meaning: The advertisement suggests that big international organizations are openly
embracing people of the LGBTQIA+ community, helping create awareness about them and
facilitating their well-being.

Trans representation in visual arts has gained increased attention, with artists using their
work to challenge stereotypes and explore the rich diversity of transgender experiences.
Through paintings, sculptures, photography, and other mediums, artists contribute to a more
inclusive narrative, fostering understanding and appreciation for the complexity of gender
identity. This growing presence in the art world helps amplify trans voices and stories,
promoting a broader and more accurate reflection of the human experience.
‘Eve’, 2018, by Savana Ogburn

Explicit Meaning: In the photos, the two main subjects pose as the biblical couple,
sometimes with melodramatically distraught looks on their faces while the other subject lurks
in the background as the serpent, often identified as Satan.
Implicit Meaning: This series called ‘Eve’ by Savana Ogburn, with all trans cast, has portraits
re-imagining the Adam and Eve story .This creates a fantasy for the sake of queer
representation. Placing trans individuals at the center of a biblical story changes the
narrative to imply a more inclusive, nuanced story about gender. The images, which showcase
an all-trans cast, subtly suggest that gender was the cause of humanity's punishment rather
than sin, as the Bible originally states.

Comparison of Media Representation

Representation of Bigger-bodied individuals:

Traditional Portrayal

(key: 9:18), “You didn’t sit on my Kit-Kats ,did you?”. - Monica, Season 6,Episode 15 , Friends

Monica's character in "Friends" during the earlier seasons, when she is portrayed as
overweight, It's essential to recognize that the character in this context reflects the cultural
attitudes prevalent during the time the show was created. However, as societal perspectives
on body image have evolved, such representations are now often critiqued for contributing
to body shaming and perpetuating harmful stereotypes.

Explicit Meaning: Monica's weight is often used for comedic effect. It was portrayed that all
she should think of was eating . This contributes to the narrative that being overweight is
inherently undesirable and a source of humor.

Implicit Meaning: Monica's storyline may reinforce harmful stereotypes and contribute to the
stigmatization of overweight individuals. It could inadvertently suggest that a person's value
or attractiveness is diminished based on their body size, perpetuating societal norms and
expectations around beauty standards.
Modern media:

"I shouldn't have to trap you into treating me like a human being." —Annie, Season 1, Episode 1, Shrill.

Explicit Meaning: Annie Easton, portrayed by Aidy Bryant in the TV series "Shrill," Annie's
character challenges societal norms around body size and is about empowerment. The show
addresses her journey towards body acceptance and refusal to conform to narrow beauty
standards.

Implicit Meaning: Annie's character subverts stereotypes associated with fat individuals. She
is portrayed as a multi-dimensional person with dreams, desires, and challenges beyond her
weight.