"That's Hot" is a zine that explores the intersection of pop culture and the portrayal of female celebrities. Featuring iconic imagery and catchphrases popularized by Paris Hilton, this zine examines how the media represents these women, often reducing them to stereotypes and dismissing them as "dumb."
By juxtaposing pictures of Hilton's glamorous lifestyle with more authentic environments, "That's Hot" contrasts the world of famous celebrities with the realities of everyday women. By mixing pictures of Hilton and her quotes with scenic backgrounds of cityscapes and nature, the zine highlights the stark differences between the rich and famous and the lives of ordinary women.
This project also incorporates personal images of the creative women around me, such as my mom and honorary aunt, who produce work centered around the female body using traditionally "women-labeled" crafts. These crafts, like quilting and embroidery, have historically been dismissed as mere crafts rather than recognized as serious art forms. This dismissal parallels how femininity and women's contributions are often undervalued in society and media.
The digitally collaged "word quilts," vibrant with colors and lace, challenge societal labels and stereotypes. These quilts symbolize the complexity and value of women's work and their lived experiences, standing in contrast to the superficial and often misleading representations of female celebrities.
"That's Hot" invites viewers to rethink and revalue the feminine in both art and media. By blending Hilton's pop culture persona with the traditionally overlooked artistry of women-labeled crafts, the zine offers a deeper look at the narratives sold to us about women's bodies and their worth. It advocates for a broader appreciation of femininity and the diverse ways it is expressed, emphasizing the richness and depth of everyday women's lives compared to the often shallow portrayals of celebrity culture.
"That's Hot," A Paris Hilton Story
Digital collage and illustration printed as a zine.