this project, titled “the absence of a presence” walks through the attained roles and general presence of men in the south.

the presence of a man has previously meant to protect and serve our country. in some southern households, the male presence is meant to protect and serve his family. the gender role associated with women providing home cooked meals and maintaining the upkeep of the house has been completely reversed in some situations. the temporary or permanent absence of this male figure can impact a child’s quality of life and mental health.

the absence of my father consists of junk food and occasionally, resentment. in return, the male presence is now left to my younger brother, as it was previously left to me.