I'm not a big fan of these photos, but I see potential in the idea

I've uploaded my favorite of these photos. This is a good idea, but I'd like to see more solid men used.

Gorgeous Portraits Capture The Feminine Side Of Masculinity (PHOTOS)

Are you sick of art history's obsession with the gentle beauty of a female muse? Enough of these beautiful women with coy glances, flowing locks and milky soft skin -- we're ready for the men.
Nir Arieli's portrait series "Men" places men in traditionally feminine spaces and postures, illuminating the human characteristics that have, over time, become decidedly feminine traits. The following male muses are making us wish men felt free to explore their feminine sides more often.

"In my work I try to expose a component of masculinity that was once oppressed by common social codes," Arieli wrote in an email to The Huffington Post. "Gentleness, uncensored emotion, vulnerability –- all of these became, under the influence of the social evolution, unnatural characteristics when manifested by men."
For his subjects, Arieli selects men who freely exhibit characteristics normally reserved for feminine territory. "They do it unapologetically and shamelessly, almost proclaiming a new forthcomingness," Arieli explained.
It's a large leap from Arieli's initial photography endeavor, serving as a military photographer for an Israeli magazine. With their gentle palettes and soft gazes, Arieli's "Men" emanate a tenderness not normally associated with masculinity. After gushing over this series, we're beginning to question why that is.

For the 10 photos, go to: www.huffingtonpost.com/2013/08/19/nir-arieli_n_37 … ostpopular
By rjzip | 08/21/2013 12:41 PM | 4 comments
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  • Again
    hisbiguy 08/21/2013 06:50 PM
  • I wouldn't call those images feminine, I would lean more toward seductive. That is how I like to pose my models. See attached images
    hisbiguy 08/21/2013 06:49 PM
  • i'm really ambivalent about this. the whole "feminine side of masculinity" spiel sounds like it's targeting a female market, like those soft focus male pinup magazines in the 70's (none of which i can remember the name of). i'm sure there's a niche for it but i'd rather see the masculine side of masculinity.
    rae121452 08/21/2013 02:05 PM
  • I agree with you rj, apparently he wants to dissolve the stereotypes, but then, for the most part, he uses these young, and some very androgynous, models. It would have been nice if he had picked some men who were a little more seasoned. :)
    My fav is posted here.
    furball 08/21/2013 01:36 PM