Over the summer, the internet was buzzing with the cheeky and ironic "Very Demure, Very Mindful" movement on platforms like TikTok. Started by Jools Lebron, the trend humorously reimagined modesty in over-the-top, exaggerated ways—from how people applied makeup to how they tackled mundane daily activities. While the moment may have peaked during the warmer months, its playful commentary on what it means to be “mindful” or “demure” still resonates for those who appreciate a little humor mixed with cultural critique.
Modesty Magnets
A sense of playful modesty aligns perfectly with the ethos of my Modesty Magnets—a unique feature I’ve created for some of my paintings, including Remote Worker, Testing the Waters, and The Flash. These magnets serve as temporary covers for sensitive areas in my bold works, making them more suitable for shows or displays where full nudity might be restricted. But beyond practicality, they embody the spirit of fun, creativity, and irony—a little wink to viewers that says, “Yes, we can be modest... but only if we want to!”
For example, Remote Worker, a piece celebrating the casual yet intimate vibe of working from home, becomes “mindfully modest” with a strategically placed magnet, allowing the work to adapt to different viewing audiences while maintaining its humor and charm. Similarly, in Testing the Waters, a magnet transforms the piece into a thought-provoking interactive experience. Viewers can participate in a poll—“Have you ever been naked on a beach?”—by chalking in their votes, all while knowing their interaction occurs over an artfully covered figure.
And who could forget The Flash, a vibrant exploration of light energy? Its optional magnet adds a layer of surprise, shifting the focus temporarily to the surrounding dynamics rather than the subject’s raw, unapologetic form. These magnets don’t censor the art so much as they add another layer of storytelling and engagement, much like the Very Demure movement invited us to rethink the concept of restraint.
Time to Spark Conversation
While the Very Demure, Very Mindful trend has faded from the spotlight, it still offers a timeless reminder: sometimes, modesty can make as bold a statement as bare vulnerability. With Modesty Magnets, my work becomes part of this playful dialogue, celebrating art’s adaptability and its ability to spark conversation.
What’s Next?
As my collection grows, I’m always brainstorming fresh ideas for new Modesty Magnets. Do you have a favorite piece in my portfolio you’d like to see get the “demure” treatment? Or perhaps you’ve got a story to share about a day at a “Very Demure” beach. Let me know! Your insights inspire me and help shape this creative journey.
Explore my works, try a magnet or two, and let’s continue redefining the art of modesty together—one thoughtful, ironic touch at a time.