Dancers, Pink and Green c. 1890

Edgar Degas created "Dancers, Pink and Green," capturing a scene from the late 19th century, a period of significant social change and artistic experimentation. Degas, as a male artist in this era, often depicted women in ways that reflected societal expectations and objectification. Here, we see dancers backstage, their bodies rendered with a detached, almost clinical eye. The pastel medium softens the image, yet there is a sense of the dancers being observed, their vulnerability exposed. Consider the socio-economic backgrounds of these dancers; often from working-class families, they sought opportunities in the theater, yet were subjected to rigorous discipline and scrutiny. Degas' work prompts us to reflect on the power dynamics at play, questioning the gaze of the artist and the expectations placed upon these young women. It evokes a mix of admiration for their dedication, and discomfort with their objectification, stirring a complex emotional response.