Cute, Cuddly and Dead

This advertisement for the organization Humans for Animals exposes the truth of animal cruelty and shatters the many misconceptions and denials on the subject. Fur coats are common in modern day society, especially in the winter months and are a staple of fashion culture. But there is a general naiveté concerning these exceedingly warm and glamorous coats. Many of the buyers tend to ignore the reality as to where the coats inevitably come from. This image uses it boldness and gruesomeness to horrify and expose this generally ignored truth. The bear stares straight at the camera, it’s head alone looks cute and furry just as the world likes to imagine these animals, while it’s torso is completely stripped of fur and skin. It’s disturbing and disgusting and immediately evokes a feeling of guilt from all viewers. It forces people to look at the consequences of their actions as buyers and therefore enablers. It also finally shows the truth of where those beautiful coats come from and how our consumer needs are affecting the rest of the natural world. The image is clearly effective for it provokes thought, guilt and reveals the awful consequences of making and wearing fur coats for our selfish, personal needs.