"Woman in progress" , by Erik Pevernagie, oil on canvas, 100 x 80 cm

Throughout our emotional odyssey in the unembellished narrative of our life, we may sense many alluring voices that are enticing us into a beguiling, seamless story.

Our inner monologue, however, might start raising consequential questions about the scintillation of that story, about our vulnerability during the tempting process and the danger of losing our real self. The question may be asked, whether the lure might enlighten, weaken, or destroy our living.

While our interior monologue mostly listens to the wisdom of our experience and the guidance of our memory, it may prefer not to listen. In that event, however, unreason and passion will be calling all the shots.

For decades women have been attempting to embroider the tale of their life, but, very often, their interior monologue has not left them much of choice.

As many still live in a patriarchal world, dominated by the punitive power of a conservative system, they have not got the opportunity to adopt attractive alternatives. Neither have they been able to refer to alluring stories that might have enhanced their standard of living and mental independence.

Gender equality in Western societies is a somewhat recent debate. In the understanding that women in France, had not the right to hold their 'own' bank account, until 1965; and that women in Switzerland had no voting right, until 1971, we must recognize that women in many third world countries have still a long way to go.

Fairness and impartiality are the main points on the agenda. Female egalitarianism and equal opportunity is still a sweltering challenge when we note that in some countries, many are always treated like slaves or considered as underdogs.

“Women in progress.”

Phenomenon: Female equality