To be comfortable in your own skin no matter who you are is something I believe in strongly, whilst also struggling with it every day. And I am certain it’s not just me.
The body positivity movement has been the encouraging beacon so many needed. A sigh of relief and encouragement to celebrate everyone’s individuality and show ourselves a bit of much-needed self love.
My work
As an illustrator, my work often features the female form and I am always pushing to make my works more inclusive and representative in an attempt to challenge societal norms and expectations.
Like a lot of people of my generation, I grew up before the time of body positivity and see the effects this had. And I’m doing what I can to contribute to the change needed to stop the negative effects of growing up in a society where body image is dictated by an unachievable media image of perfection.
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This seems increasingly important as we have never been more surrounded by marketing imagery from advertising to influencer culture. But as image-makers, creatives have never been in a better position to take matters into their own hands, use their skills to spread positivity on social media and make more voices heard.
A force for good
I love the idea of using illustration as a force for good to make positive changes and challenge societal norms by celebrating all body types rather than creating an ‘us and them’ mentality; to be truly inclusive and just as diverse as the people that should be represented and celebrated.
Illustration has a history of rebellion and protest, often used as symbols of movements to make real societal change. Its role in the body positivity movement is no different.
I will always try to be a tiny part of this movement for representation and inclusivity and will continue to let this inspire my work along with themes of mindfulness, self-care and feminism.
To find out more, visit: zoejacksonillustration.co.uk or follow Zoe on Instagram and Facebook.