A newly unveiled portrait of Princess Catherine on Wednesday divided opinions and sparked a range of reactions from royal fans. The controversial portrait has left some confused or even furious.
The artwork, created by British-Zambian artist Hannah Uzor, graced the cover of Tatler magazine’s July 2024 issue as part of a series showcasing portraits of the royal family.
Uzor seemed to draw inspiration from the Princess of Wales’ attire at a state banquet in November 2022, which was the first held under King Charles’ reign.
Middleton, 42, attended the event wearing a white, floor-length gown adorned with crystal-covered shoulders and billowing sleeves.
Speaking of the portrait, the artist has noted, “I spent a lot of time looking at her, looking at her pictures, watching videos of her, seeing her with her family, seeing her in diplomatic visits, seeing her when she’s rowing or visiting children in hospice.”
Fans online had mixed reactions upon seeing the painting. Although the post garnered several thousand likes, many expressed their confusion about the artwork.
One person wrote, ”What a horrible portrait for a beautiful Woman,” while another observer simply asked, ”Is this a joke?” A third added, ”My 9-year-old granddaughter could probably have made a better job. It’s awful.”
A few weeks ago, the Prince and Princess of Wales marked their 13th anniversary with a previously unseen photo, but one detail raised suspicion. Check it out here.
Preview photo credit PA Images / Alamy Stock Photo, PA Images / Alamy Stock Photo, tatlermagazine / Instagram
A beach in the 70’s. Not one over weight body. My, how the food industry destroyed us.
The Transformation of Our Bodies and Diets
In the 1970s, a visit to the beach was a showcase of lean, active bodies. People of all ages enjoyed the sun, surf, and sand with a level of fitness that seemed effortless. Fast forward to today, and the scene has drastically changed. The prevalence of overweight and obese individuals has skyrocketed, painting a stark contrast to the svelte figures of the past. This shift prompts us to examine the role of the food industry in this dramatic transformation.
The 1970s: A Different Era of Eating
During the 70s, the typical diet was markedly different from what we see today. Meals were often home-cooked, with fresh ingredients forming the backbone of family dinners. Processed foods were available but not ubiquitous. Fast food chains were fewer, and eating out was considered a treat rather than a regular occurrence. Portion sizes were smaller, and sugary snacks were less prevalent in households.
Physical activity also played a significant role in the lives of people in the 70s. Without the convenience of digital entertainment, children and adults alike spent more time outdoors, engaging in physical activities. Walking, cycling, and participating in sports were common pastimes.
The Rise of Processed Foods
The landscape began to change with the rise of processed foods and fast food chains in the late 20th century. The food industry, driven by profit, began to prioritize convenience and shelf-life over nutritional value. High-fructose corn syrup, hydrogenated oils, and an array of artificial additives became staples in many foods. These ingredients made food cheaper and more accessible but also less healthy.
Marketing strategies targeted at children and busy adults further entrenched these unhealthy eating habits. Fast food advertisements promised quick, tasty meals at low prices, and snack companies created products that were hard to resist due to their high sugar and salt content. This aggressive marketing, combined with the convenience of ready-made meals, led to a significant increase in the consumption of unhealthy foods.
The Impact on Public Health
The consequences of these changes in diet have been profound. Rates of obesity have soared, bringing with them a host of health problems, including diabetes, heart disease, and various forms of cancer. According to the World Health Organization, worldwide obesity has nearly tripled since 1975. In many countries, the number of overweight children and adolescents has increased tenfold over the same period.
The food industry’s influence extends beyond what we eat to how we perceive food. Portion sizes have increased dramatically, and the notion of what constitutes a normal serving has become distorted. Additionally, the emphasis on convenience has led to a decline in cooking skills, with many people relying heavily on pre-packaged meals and fast food.
Moving Towards a Healthier Future
Addressing this issue requires a multifaceted approach. Public awareness campaigns can educate people about the dangers of processed foods and the benefits of a balanced diet. Governments can implement policies to regulate the marketing of unhealthy foods, particularly to children, and promote healthier options. Schools can play a crucial role by providing nutritious meals and incorporating nutrition education into their curricula.
On an individual level, making a conscious effort to prepare meals from fresh ingredients, controlling portion sizes, and increasing physical activity can help counteract the damage done by the food industry. Embracing a lifestyle reminiscent of the 70s, where home-cooked meals and outdoor activities were the norm, can pave the way towards a healthier society.
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