Más allá de las sombras

Beyond the Shadows: A Visual Exploration of Illness, Gender, and Social Inequalities This doctoral research examines the intersection of illness, gender, and social inequalities through a documentary and authorial photographic approach. The project, Más allá de las sombras (Beyond the Shadows), focuses on the visual representation of women facing illness, particularly breast cancer, and the socio-cultural barriers they encounter in accessing diagnosis and treatment. By combining documentary photography, personal narratives, and critical analysis, this study aims to contribute to a broader understanding of how illness is perceived, experienced, and represented within different socio-economic and cultural contexts. Research Context and Objectives Breast cancer remains the leading cause of female mortality worldwide, yet access to healthcare is deeply unequal. Economic constraints, cultural taboos, and gender biases significantly affect early detection and treatment. This research questions how visual storytelling can reveal these disparities and challenge dominant narratives that often marginalize the voices of affected women. The study seeks to: Document the lived experiences of women facing breast cancer through an intimate and ethical photographic approach. Analyze how visual representations influence public perception and policy regarding illness and gender. Explore the potential of photography as a tool for awareness, advocacy, and social change. Contribute to the development of visual methodologies that prioritize agency, dignity, and collaborative storytelling. Methodology The project employs a qualitative and participatory methodology, integrating: Documentary Photography: A series of portraits and daily life scenes capturing the realities of women affected by breast cancer, highlighting both vulnerability and resilience. Collaborative Storytelling: Engaging participants in co-creating narratives through interviews, self-representation, and visual diaries to ensure a nuanced and personal perspective. Field Research: Conducted in various socio-economic settings to compare disparities in access to healthcare and the impact of cultural perceptions on medical care. Critical Analysis: Examining existing visual narratives in media and medical discourse, assessing their role in shaping societal attitudes toward illness and femininity. Key Findings and Contributions Preliminary findings indicate that the visual representation of illness often reinforces stereotypes, portraying affected women either as passive victims or heroic survivors, leaving little space for a complex and authentic depiction of their lived experiences. This research highlights the need for alternative narratives that emphasize agency, community support, and systemic issues rather than individual resilience alone. Furthermore, the participatory approach fosters a more ethical and empowering representation of women, challenging traditional dynamics between photographer and subject. By giving participants control over their own images and stories, the project not only documents but also advocates for change, aiming to influence public perception and healthcare policies. Conclusion and Future Perspectives Beyond the Shadows aspires to extend beyond academic research into tangible social impact. The project envisions exhibitions, publications, and collaborations with NGOs and healthcare institutions to promote early detection initiatives and advocate for improved access to treatment. By bridging art, research, and activism, this work contributes to a critical rethinking of how we visualize and understand illness, gender, and inequality in contemporary society.

Más allá de la sombras

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