I can not say that I'm offended because I understand the historical context of blackface. To me, the word blackface connotes words like ridicule and racism. What this MUA created did not equate to those words. Actually, when I saw the picture a quote came to mind, “Imitation is the sincerest form of flattery that mediocrity can pay to greatness.” (Oscar Wilde)
Not everyone is mad or offended. As a matter of fact, I am a bit confused by it all. The Buzzfeed journalist mentions the word "blackface" in her subtitle and everybody jumped on the train without studying the history of blackface and its origins. The MUA replicated the very look that most of us are attempting to achieve. From the highlighting to the contour for a slim nose, the very same outcome is seen on this Facebook page as well as all over YouTube. MAYBE it's a wake-up call that proves we judge ourselves by Eurocentric standards and attempt to duplicate it. MAYBE we're feeling the sting of being slapped in the face with the Eurocentric beauty standards that WE have adopted into our own makeup routines. Think about it. You are judging someone's creativity based on what? Your assumptions about his intentions? Your own insecurities? In the end, there is no blame to place anywhere. If we're honest, (because of social media) we apply our makeup looks from a global perspective. We SEE and KNOW the other cultures that are known for specific natural features (i.e. thick eyebrows, long eyelashes, slim jawline).
All in all, the Buzzfeed journalist did her job. She baited what she knew was a HUGE community (of. those with an affinity for make-up) and the community took the bait and made her article viral.
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