'Nazar' is a visual essay that explores some dimensions of female sexuality and female bodies. It invites viewers and audience to think about how female sexuality and bodies are expressed, regulated and threatened, with a focus on the Indian context. This visual essay is meant to (pro)evoke dialogue about a much discussed subject, albeit by employing methods of reflexive design practice and auto-ethnography. 

The idea for this book stemmed from my personal experiences of being an Indian woman, when I lived abroad in a country different from my own. I was in a unique position to observe and compare two cultures (Indian and British), and critically question societal norms and ideals.  It is influenced by the works of Dutch designer Jan Van Toorn, who uses reflexive design practice to explore propaganda, manipulation and dissemination of information. Toorn favors expression which stimulates the reader, rather than beautiful compositions and sleek forms (Poynor 2008). I have thus used strategies of reflexive artists, such as narrative discontinuities and disruptions, and stylistic virtuosity, to invite readers to closely interact with and interpret the design piece. 

The book is supported by a visual summary and report document that discuss my study on beauty and body image, gender in media and public space and the power dynamics influencing female sexuality. I have also touched upon my role as an author, editor, storyteller and provocateur in the design process. While the topic of female sexuality is well-debated within academia, I hope that my engagement with it via a visual and reflexive design perspective could open up lateral ways of exploring the issue, i.e. one that recasts the connections between social sciences, visual culture and graphic design. You can find more details about these documents here.