Untitled #103

Acting as the director, photographer, and subject of this photograph, Cindy Sherman appears scantily clad in a pose suggestive of a centerfold model. At first glance the photo seems to satisfy its purpose—to titillate and entice. Upon closer inspection, however, we become aware that the model looks disheveled. Her lipstick is smeared, and her nightgown, which is only a simple cotton shift, is tattered and worn. It is her facial expression—seemingly full of pent-up sadness—that is most unsettling. Sherman is a master of disguises, using costuming, lighting, and makeup to evoke female stereotypes drawn from popular culture.