Retail Therapy is a current project involving a combination of street performance and online engagement.
I worked in women's retail for many years and recorded a number of confessions from the shoppers I encountered. These often indicated an all too common and socially acceptable form of self-loathing.
The following is a small selection:
"I can't wear a dress, I'll look like a man in drag."
"I should go wearing a black rubbish bag over my head."(x2)
"Don't I look like a great white rhino in these trousers?"
"I can't wear anything with a low neck. I usually turn tops around and wear them backwards instead."
"Usually I don't let anyone help me with my shopping. I hate it so much. I've been on every kind of diet there is, but never seem to lose weight."
Retail Therapy is a response to these experiences. In sharing my observations of shopping culture and asking for input from readers, I intend to explore the connection between shopping culture and self-perception.
Please visit www.shoppingculture.blog.com for further details of Retail Therapy.