Eye to Eye

Synopsis

The women in these portraits were some of the first dykes I ever laid eyes on, and the book feels like a lost family album. -Alison Bechdel

In 1979, JEB self-published her first book, Eye to Eye: Portraits of Lesbians. In a work that was revolutionary for its era, JEB made photographs of lesbians from different ages and backgrounds in their everyday lives-working, playing, raising families, and striving to remake their worlds. The photographs were accompanied by writings from acclaimed authors including Audre Lorde, Adrienne Rich, Joan Nestle, and others. Various women pictured in the book also shared their personal stories. Eye to Eye signaled a radical new way of seeing-moving lesbian lives from the margins to the center, and reversing a history of invisibility. More than just a book, it was an affirmation of the existence of lesbians that helped to propel a political movement. Reprinted for the first time in forty years, Eye to Eye is a faithful reproduction of a work that still resonates today. This edition features additional essays from artist and writer Tee Corinne, former World Cup soccer player Lori Lindsey, and photographer Lola Flash.

Summary

Chapter 1: The Power of Eye Contact

* Definition of eye contact: Mutual attention between two or more individuals through their eyes.
* Benefits of eye contact: Builds trust, conveys emotion, enhances communication.
* Example: Two strangers making eye contact in a crowded room and feeling an instant connection.

Chapter 2: The Art of Making Eye Contact

* Making eye contact with strangers: Be natural, hold for 2-3 seconds, then break away.
* Making eye contact with acquaintances: Slightly longer, 4-5 seconds.
* Making eye contact with superiors: Longer still, 6-7 seconds, but avoid staring.
* Example: A job applicant making eye contact with the interviewer to demonstrate confidence and engagement.

Chapter 3: The Language of Eyes

* Pupil dilation: Indicates interest, attraction, or excitement.
* Eyebrow movements: Raise to express surprise, lower to convey anger or suspicion.
* Blinking: Rapid blinking can indicate nervousness or deception.
* Example: A couple sharing a romantic moment with dilated pupils and lowered eyebrows.

Chapter 4: The Cultural Context of Eye Contact

* Eye contact in different cultures: Varies widely, from highly valued to avoided.
* Importance of cultural awareness: Avoid misinterpretations and misunderstandings.
* Example: In some Asian cultures, prolonged eye contact is considered disrespectful, while in Western cultures it is seen as a sign of sincerity.

Chapter 5: The Benefits of Breaking Eye Contact

* Allows for processing information: Breaking eye contact gives the listener time to digest what you're saying.
* Avoids discomfort: Too much eye contact can be intimidating or uncomfortable.
* Signals respect: Letting the other person speak without making constant eye contact shows respect.
* Example: A teacher breaking eye contact with students to give them time to form questions and participate in class.

Chapter 6: The Power of Eye Contact in Relationships

* Eye contact in romantic relationships: Builds intimacy, trust, and connection.
* Eye contact in platonic relationships: Strengthens bonds and fosters understanding.
* Example: A mother and child sharing a loving gaze that conveys their deep affection.

Chapter 7: Case Studies and Applications

* Eye contact in business negotiations: Conveys confidence, strength, and trustworthiness.
* Eye contact in public speaking: Engages the audience and builds rapport.
* Eye contact in dating: Signals interest, attraction, and a desire to connect.
* Example: A salesperson using eye contact to establish trust and persuade a potential customer.