Doves and ravens 

Fernanda Suarez created this digital painting of a modern-day Little Red Riding Hood in the 20th century. The artist reframes the traditional fairytale by placing a mature and somber Riding Hood in a dark and ambiguous setting. The bright red cloak, a strong visual code, still hints at the original tale. But the woman’s bare skin, the window with its absent light, and the scars on her arms suggest something more complex. Consider the changing role of fairy tales in culture. What was once a simple cautionary tale for children becomes a powerful symbol of feminine strength and resilience. This is especially seen in a time when the stigma around mental health is lessening and people are speaking out, as can be seen with the scars. Research into popular culture might reveal a deeper understanding of the artwork. Examining different versions of Little Red Riding Hood stories can offer different insights. This artwork reminds us that images are not neutral; they’re shaped by the societies in which they’re made.