Science & Vie Magazine – Single gendered parents 2019

Owen Gent's illustration for Science & Vie magazine presents us with a child sitting on a female symbol, part of a seesaw, while a game of hopscotch lies nearby. The seesaw itself, a symbol of balance, takes on new dimensions when paired with gender symbols. The female sign beneath the child is not merely a biological marker; it echoes ancient Venus figurines, potent symbols of fertility and creation. Here, however, its placement under the child—in the context of the article title—suggests a shifting societal structure, questioning traditional family dynamics. Consider how, throughout history, symbols of femininity have been associated with nurturing and motherhood. Yet, in this modern illustration, the artist prompts us to re-evaluate these age-old associations, presenting them within the context of contemporary discussions on gender and parenting. The act of balancing is a powerful force in engaging the viewer on a deep, subconscious level. Thus, the artwork becomes a mirror, reflecting our own evolving understanding of these deeply rooted cultural symbols and the emotional weight they carry.