This is Meagan Kerr

Body Positive Art by Carol Rossetti

Brazilian designer and illustrator Carol Rossetti‘s images are beautiful feminist statements about freedom. Addressing a range of subjects, from body positivity to ageing to sexuality, Rossetti’s illustrations are eye-catching and engaging.

Marina loves her striped dress, but the fashion magazines said horizontal stripes didn't fit her body shape. Don't you care about those magazines, Marina. The important thing is for you to wear what you like, and to feel comfortable with your own body.

Helena avoided wearing high heels because everybody told her she would be too tall. Then, Helena tried on the Louboutins and has never ever wanted to take them off

I’ve had a few people send images through to me and tag me in Carol’s facebook posts – both because they’re lovely, and Marina (pictured at the top of the page) is so relevant to the Fat Girls Shouldn’t Wear Stripes body positive fashion project I started in 2013.

Mariana has always loved going to the beach. However, it's been some time since people started badmouthing her body, and they even suggested she retired the bikini and wore something more discreet. Mariana, your body is not an ornament made to please the public. You go to the beach however you like! Those who don't approve your looks can always look the other way.

I love the messages that Carol Rossetti sends with her illustrations – they’re relevant to all women, regardless of age, race, body shape or social background.

“Mariana, your body is not an ornament made to please the public. You go to the beach however you like! Those who don’t approve [of] your looks can always look the other way.” – Carol Rossetti

Whitney has spent 10 years of her life trying to lose weight so she could be happy then. Then, she realized her body didn't stop her from doing what she loves and trying to find happiness. That's the way, Whitney! You don't have to allow that an excluding and discriminating model be put between you and your happiness. Everybody is entitled to self-respect! Carol Rossetti

This illustration was based on “Fat Girl Dancing” star, Whitney Thore

Amanda has decided that shaving is not her thing. Amanda, it's your body and you do whatever you want with it. No social convention should have a say in your identity! Carol RossettiThe text on Rossetti’s original drawings is in Portuguese, and she is currently working on translating her pieces in to English. I can’t wait to see more of Carol’s drawings in English (on account of me not knowing Portuguese), but no matter what the language, her message is the same – encouraging women to be free and embrace themselves as they are.

You see more of Carol Rossetti’s work on her facebook page.

Which of Carol’s illustrations is your favourite?

xo Meagan

Jane was told that she would be really pretty if she lost some pounds. Jane, your beauty and your self-esteem are not defined by your weight (and it's likely that those who said that would be prettier if they knew when to SHUT UP). Carol Rossetti

All images © Carol Rossetti

Used with permission

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4 Comments

  1. Pingback: I love my body so fuck you. | contagiousqueer
  2. gwen fisher
    July 28, 2014 / 6:06 am

    love her work, I own a salon and spa here in Canada and would love to have these posted around our business to share this message, everyday we hear negative self talk and it makes me crazy, all I see is beauty. how can I get posters of her work, I’ve been searching and can’t find the right sight. thanks Gwen Fisher BC Canada

    • This is Meagan Kerr
      July 28, 2014 / 9:08 pm

      Hi Gwen,

      What a great idea! Carol’s website is under construction at the moment, but you can get in touch with her via her facebook page – just send her a private message.

      xo

  3. Heather Carrigan
    July 17, 2014 / 5:34 pm

    LOVE IT!

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