Being Free & Fearless & Letting Go of "Make Wrong"

September 03, 2024

"NATURAL"

Artifice and artificial are terms that can carry negative connotations. They are rooted in the Latin "artificium," a combination of "ars" (art) and "facere" (to make), and originally referred to something made by human skill rather than occurring naturally. However, over time, they’ve come to suggest deceit, insincerity, or something less valuable than what is considered "real" or "authentic."

In a world that highly values authenticity and naturalness, anything labeled as artificial can provoke judgment or discomfort. Yet, there are vibrant subcultures where artifice is not only accepted but celebrated as a form of self-expression, transformation, and art. Living Barbies and Kens, or those who engage in extreme plastic surgery, and drag queens are examples of communities that embrace artifice to explore identity, push the boundaries of beauty, and create art from their own bodies and personas. For people in these communities, it’s not about hiding who they are but amplifying it, making a statement, or simply reveling in the joy of self-creation.

Despite the celebration of artifice within these communities, many people still react with judgment or even disgust. This often stems from deeply ingrained beliefs about what is normal, acceptable, or valuable. When confronted with someone radically altering their appearance or playing with identity in ways that feel unfamiliar, it can trigger discomfort, rooted in the fear of the uncanny—things that look almost human but not quite—or a broader fear of the unnatural replacing the real. Such expressions can challenge long-standing views on beauty, gender, and how people should present themselves, provoking defensive or hostile reactions.

Judgment can also be a reflection of our own insecurities. When we see someone boldly embracing their artifice, it can stir up feelings of envy, fear of judgment, or confrontations with our own repressed desires. Instead of introspection, these emotions often manifest outwardly as judgment toward others who visibly defy norms.

The complexity of our relationship with artifice is further deepened by the "Kardashian effect," where the commercialization of a particular, highly curated aesthetic—often involving extensive cosmetic procedures, meticulous grooming, and digital filters—adds another layer of pressure, especially on women. This phenomenon turns artifice into a commercialized ideal, a standard that is marketed as desirable but is often heavily edited, costly, and unattainable for many. Here, artifice shifts from a space of creative freedom or personal expression to yet another financial and social obligation. The Kardashian effect has made appearance a commodity and a status symbol, reinforcing a cycle where personal value is tied to one's ability to meet these highly produced standards.

This becomes less about individual expression and more about conforming to a manufactured ideal that is constantly shifting and escalating. The financial burden of achieving this look, whether through plastic surgery, high-end beauty products, or simply the time and effort required, adds a tangible layer of inequality, making artifice a privilege not accessible to all. This economic disparity fuels resentment and judgment, as it highlights how certain forms of artifice are celebrated when aligned with wealth and status, while others are marginalized or dismissed.

Navigating these pressures involves recognizing the difference between artifice as a personal, liberating choice and artifice driven by external demands to conform or compete. It’s about reclaiming artifice on one’s own terms, using it as a tool for empowerment, creativity, and self-exploration rather than merely a means to fit in.

To move beyond judgment and toward celebration, we can start by cultivating curiosity and openness. Instead of reacting with criticism, we can ask, "What does this expression mean to the person embracing it? What can I learn from their choices?" This shift from judgment to inquiry opens up pathways to understanding and empathy. We can also reflect on our own engagement with artifice—recognizing that everyone, in some form, participates in crafting their identities, whether through fashion, makeup, social media, or the roles we play in various aspects of life.

Empathy is crucial here. By stepping into the shoes of those who live within these subcultures, we can appreciate the courage it takes to live authentically in ways that defy societal norms. Instead of viewing artifice as a mask, we can celebrate it as an act of artistry and individuality, recognizing the shared human desires to be seen, to express, and to find beauty in our own ways.

Creating more inclusive spaces where diverse forms of artifice are normalized and valued can help shift perceptions. This involves broadening the narrative around beauty and self-expression, championing media that showcases a wider range of appearances and identities, and supporting authenticity over the pursuit of a single ideal. By challenging the biases and cultural narratives that define what is acceptable, we make room for a richer, more varied tapestry of human expression.

Ultimately, celebrating artifice means embracing the freedom it represents—the freedom to explore, transform, and express oneself without being confined by rigid definitions of what is natural or authentic. It’s a call to expand our minds and hearts, to honor the artistry in how people choose to present themselves, and to appreciate the diverse expressions of identity that make the world more vibrant.

By embracing a more playful approach to artifice, we can try on different looks, personas, and expressions not because we have to but because we can. If there’s no right or wrong way to present, we can instead focus on what feels true, exciting, or just plain fun. Whether it’s through fashion, makeup, body art, or any other form of self-expression, use artifice as a canvas to explore your evolving identity.

Finding your own values in this arena means asking yourself what feels authentic to you, independent of external pressures. It’s about discerning what brings you joy, confidence, and a sense of personal resonance. What's good for you? There’s no need to fit into a single mold when the possibilities are endless.

So, let's give ourselves and others permission to play. Make nothing wrong. Celebrate the freedom to craft and recraft your identity as often as you like, it if calls or interests you. In doing so, you not only expand your own experience of self but also contribute to a world that values the beautiful diversity of human expression.

When we step into this playful, experimental space, we create a more accepting and vibrant community where everyone can feel free to be themselves in all their many forms.