The Female Body in Virtual Space

Abstract

In contrast to the idea that male-designed and populated spaces reinforce patriarchal conditions is the essentialist assumption that spaces designed for and by females should have different spatial goals and outcomes, as well as being utilised in a contrasting manner. This is not always the case, however, due to the implicit foundations of viewing and participatory practices that are inscribed onto space and representation. Eden: The Seduction — a site explicitly for ‘lesbian and bi girls’ — illustrates the conditioned conformity to standardised depictions of femininity, sexuality and the gaze. Although the space purports to be for lesbian and other non-normative female representation, identity and community (Greek Gold Lesbian Resort 2011a), the site actually promotes passive conformity to hetero-patriarchal conventions. For this reason, Eden is a space that cannot be categorised as queer, despite its intentions. Because of the continued marginalisation of non-normatively gendered and sexually diverse individuals, the categories ‘queer’ and ‘queerness’ are framed as having a political purpose, and are not simply a description of alternate sexual practice. Despite the supposed absence of males within Eden, the male gaze becomes reinscribed through the normativity of feminine expression as well as the commodification and sexualisation of the female body.