Humans question themselves continuosly.
But what I have always been certain of is that I am a man. The certainty is confusing.
The sex is perceived as a whole, consisting of different components.

The genetic, biological, anatomic and hormonal sex creates physical characteristics which are reinforced by the psychological sex. Beefy, hairy men with large penises may consider the physical attributes the most important when it comes to measuring manhood. Within culture this is, however, not enough.

Stereotypes within sexes illustrate the requirements for the real man: the ability to breed procreate is the foundation of family life, where man can act as a provider and leader . The man is successful and his actions create role models for his sons and daughters. The certainty is simple for the stereotypical man: everything is fine, as long as you do not live as if you were a woman.

The so called new-machoism, invented by feminists, however, does not approve of the stereotypical roles. The man has to be brave enough to cry, strong enough to admit his own weaknesses. Sensibility and empathy require male strength and courage. The man does not hit; he holds back and talks. Even if he is restricted from using the rights of the physically stronger, civilisation does not weaken the instincts. A herd needs its leader.

To oppress in socially accepted manners demands skill. One is forced to hide the power and the craving for it. General knowledge and do-It-Yourself-guidebooks are weapons with which one first triumphs over the competitors, then conquers the females. Different cultures have created definitions which wipe each other out. What matters is how you are experienced by others.
You can choose the definition for this evaluation of yourself and emphasise the attributes within it. But how do you react to those who choose differently than you? How do you think they relate to you? The social sex is the basis of all experiences.

In the installation Gym 25 kg you find figures, all of them practising their self-chosen manhood.

Krister Gråhn
e-mail: krisgrah@kuva.fi

Ohi on! – Over and done 2004
Vahvin mies voittakoon – May the strongest man win 2004
Siinä on mies paikallaan –Right man in the right place 2004
Elä olematta nainen – Live like no woman 2005
Mennäänkö ulos kattoon – Let’s take this to the outside 2004
Poika tulee – It´s a boy 2005
Isämerkki – Sing of a father 2005