Had an interesting thought in the shower about labels. Sometimes it feels that labels are used so we don't need to tax our brain too much. It's so much easier to label something so we can place it into a "box" that makes sense to us. Once in that "box" it's easier to decide if we can like what we've labeled or if we hate it.
No matter how another person sorts these labels, it's how you feel about it that's truly important and not the label itself.
What is it that we do exactly? We dress to look like a person of the opposite gender. And why has the label Crossdresser (or insert any label here) come to describe what you do?
Try looking at it in a new light. Couldn't you be considered a Performance Artist? It would certainly allow a greater leeway with the general population. It's just that we choose to use ourselves as the canvas. What's wrong with art?
When you break it down a further.
We are sculptors, changing our bodies by adding or subtracting material to build a work of art based on our tastes and desires. A little tuck here, a little padding there, some silicone right over there… and the canvas has been altered.
We are painters. Taking cosmetic "paints" to illustrate the illusion of a smoother, younger and more beautiful appearance. Changing colors to highlight the areas we choose to, and downplay the features we'd like to "hide" from the viewer.
We are actors. Shifting our internal consciousness to portray another. Using movement (dance) and vocal qualities (singing) to bring our masterpiece into clearer focus.
We are Artists.
It doesn't matter what your artwork looks like or how permanent you decide it should be, you could be considered a Performance Artist.
Of course if you're happy with the labels that society has chosen, by all means use them. But if societies labels make you feel uncomfortable or "broken", make one up that fits your feelings, wants and needs.
No matter what the label, you will always remain…. a human being.
Love to hear your thoughts….
Amanda