The museum's website says that it's mission is to "preserve and present the history, evolution and cultural significance of human sexuality. In its exhibitions, programs and publications, the Museum of Sex is committed to opening discourse and exchange and to bringing to the public the best in current scholarship."
The museum hosts various exhibits and artwork.
taken by kimmykak
Because sex is different things to different people there is most likely going to be artwork that not only intrigues but humors, impresses, and offends.
I am an anti-pornography feminist and I am aware that there are many who link pornography to genuine sexuality. While I disagree that there is authenticity in porn or a positive message within the confines of porn I acknowledge that it exists and that many enjoy it.
I do not know how it is presented in the Museum of Sex but I am curious to know how it is represented in this arena.
I could only hope that if I get the chance to visit the museum I will feel inspired and will learn. I know how I feel about myself, my body and my own sexuality however I always appreciate an environment that provokes thought.
Embracing our sexuality and our bodies and our personal connection is an on going journey and it seems that the museum can assist us in teasing our perceptions.
In the above photo there are two large penis sculptures on the either side of three chairs. How often do we see penises that large? Um, never. And to sit humbly between such huge figures has got to be interesting!
In my view men and women often grow up feeling awkward about genetalia. Sometimes this feeling carries over into adulthood or sometimes people glorify their parts to the utmost degree.
Genuine appreciation (whatever that means) is not often the goal. It is my goal and I have learned to appreciate in the midst of a love hate relationship with genetalia.
In my own life I have came to realize long ago that genetalia does not have to be viewed as one way all of the time.
For example. A penis can be threatening in certain situations, it can be beautiful, it can be humble, it can be silly, it can be admired as art or as simple (or not so simple) anatomy. I think vaginas can be pretty, vaginas can be ugly, vaginas can be poetic, physically defined or undefined. So many ways to view anything.
I wonder what a museum can show me.
I went to the website and visited the online gift shop. I found a couple of items for sale that stood out.
This is a breast implant paperweight. I find it humorous as to me it signifies the ridiculousness that is a breast implant. Sometimes breast implants are utilized for other reasons that to make breasts larger. At times they are used for cancer survivors but most women use them to enlarge their breasts.
I am not fond of calling a penis by a name which avoids acknowledging what it is. So the name "Peckeroni" is not humorous to me however, I am a fan of penis pasta. I suppose penis pasta can be considered humorous however it to me it is not humorous in a mocking fashion. I think penises can be many things. When I'm in a relationship I have a connection to my partner's penis and I think it can be beautiful. It can also be strange and yes silly. But I do not shame the penis and nor am I condescending towards men because they own one.
I think consuming penis pasta is kind of a light hearted way of celebrating bodies.
The online store also sells items that turn me off. Buttons that read, "I love porn", pinup girl books and so on.
Again, sexuality is different things to different people. I wonder what sex is like at the Museum of Sex!
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