The Bodyshop

Body modification and self-image

We Are Social Rebels and the municipality of Eindhoven present The Body Shop: a futuristic store where you can explore and discuss the possibilities and impact of body modification. As body modification becomes more common, questions arise about its impact on self-image and societal perceptions. Despite its growing normalization, it remains a taboo topic, making open dialogue essential, especially among young people. The Body Shop encourages visitors to reflect on their desires and concerns, consider safety, and discuss negative feelings. The artwork highlights the need for reflection and open conversation about the influence of technology on our appearance and self-image.

What if changing your body is as easy as filling in a catalog?

The Bodyshop offers a futuristic store experience centered around body modification. In this advanced setting, visitors can explore the impact of technology on our appearance and consider its ethical and societal implications. The artwork presents technology in a normalized light while raising profound questions about self-image and societal norms.

Visitors have the opportunity to fill out a body catalog, allowing them to hypothetically order body parts. This process involves answering reflective questions such as: "Are there external factors in your environment that influence your desire to change your body?" These questions encourage visitors to think about their own motivations and the influences that may affect them.

Additionally, visitors can share their views on what they consider normal in terms of body modification on a scale that visually represents the diversity of opinions. This creates a platform for discussion and provides insight into how different people perceive body changes.

The Mental Gym

The Bodyshop is a key feature of The Mental Gym, offering a mental workout that challenges taboos and promotes reflection on body modification and societal norms. It encourages visitors to discuss often-overlooked aspects of self-image and technology, aligning with The Mental Gym’s goal of fostering open dialogue and preventive mental health care. Created by We Are Social Rebels in collaboration with the Municipality of Eindhoven for Mental Health Week 2024, The Mental Gym aims to shift from curing to preventing mental health issues. It seeks to raise awareness about self-care and prevention, emphasizing the importance of proactive mental well-being to build a healthier society. Check yout the other mental workouts at Kelderman en van Noort during the Dutch Design Week!