What is the Erotic?
The Erotic is a phrase coined by the famous Black activist, poet, and teacher Audre Lorde. Lorde, who was heavily involved in the Women’s Right Movement, the Civil Rights Movement, and the LGBTQ+ Movement was an individual that was radical in her beliefs. She believed that in order for people, especially Black women, to fully unlock their potential and be able to effectively dismantle the white patriarchy that has held them in bondage mentally, emotionally, and physically for years, they had to embrace “the Erotic” or the understanding that their feelings of passion, love, and emotion are just as valid as things like logic and reason. Once someone learns how to fully embrace “The Erotic”, they will be able to take on all the challenges and obstacles that have been set in their way by society.
The Photograph’s Connection to the Erotic
Within the photograph, “Portrait of a Woman Who Has Fallen From Grace”, Weems, who is the subject, can be seen smirking boldly at the camera while she sprawls in bed with her legs open. For Weems to take a photo in this position and give it a title that suggests that she has “fallen from grace” “into the hands of evil”, it demonstrates that she isn’t afraid of how society will perceive her. Weems through this photo demonstrates to the audience that she is reclaiming her body and being unapologetically herself.
Additionally, Weems’ photo is an act of self love against a society that has time and time again dehumanized and disrespected the Black Woman’s body. By Weems accepting herself and the skin she is in, she is embracing an aspect of ‘The Erotic” that will allow her to free herself from the standards that have been set by the white patriarchy about who she is and what she is capable of doing as a Black woman.
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