Behind Motherhood

In Japan, the myth that women have maternal instincts as a biological trait is still widely believed. Although this idea has long been debunked scientifically, there is still strong social pressure for women to take the initiative in raising children. It is said that women's happiness lies in being mothers, and if they are mothers, they should have the selflessness and tenderness of a holy mother.



However, behind the veil of motherhood, each person has ambivalent emotions. As well as physical damage and sleeplessness, they experience career interruptions, social isolation, and loss of time to themselves. They are never allowed to have personal aspirations other than parenting. And it is taboo for women to talk out loud about not enjoying parenthood or regretting giving birth.



According to the World Economic Forum's 2024 Gender Gap Index, Japan ranks 118th out of 146 countries, making it the most sexist country in the developed world. Gender roles remain segregated and the social structure of women doing housework and childcare and men working is entrenched. Because it is believed that only by perfecting child-rearing can one approach the ideal woman, there is a high rate of women leaving the workforce after childbirth, and even when they return to work, many give up full-time employment.



In Victorian baby portraiture, mothers hid their bodies and faces behind sheets or curtains for long exposures, supporting their children from behind to prevent them from moving. It was as if mothers were erasing their identities as they raised their children. Deprived of the opportunity to contribute to society, these women hide their true selves behind their children. They are eager to be accepted by society by playing the role of a good mother. I think a society in which women can talk openly and honestly about the ambivalent emotions behind the sheets is what modern Japanese society needs.