Credit: The O Project

For centuries, patriarchy has influenced and dominated societies around the globe. Finally, in the modern era, the beauty and freedom of the Divine Feminine are being revealed. Traits such as compassion, contemplation, and creativity are trending, and the goal of living in harmony with Mother Earth is becoming a forefront desire for many.

However, there is still an aspect of the Divine feminine societies have yet to accept, and that is female sexuality. In many ways — particularly in the United States, female sexuality is suppressed. While it is okay for men to sleep around as they please, women who are

While it is okay for men to sleep with multiple partners, females are called “slut” and “whore” for doing the same. And when women bare their breasts to feed their child in public, they are often shamed for doing so. Another example is when a woman experiences sexual assault (either through lewd comments or physical altercation) and is told she was in the wrong for wearing revealing clothing.

Inspired to challenge the stigma that often accompanies female sexuality, Brazilian photographer Marcos Alberti created The O Project. The steamy series features photographs of women around the world during, before and after orgasm. For the sultry series, Alberti teamed up with women’s sex toy company Smile Makers. He then collaborated with models of all nationalities — including those from more conservative cultures, such as China and Singapore.

Said Fan Yang, Global Brand Manager of Smile Makers, “Our partnership with Marcos allowed us to create this series to upend that social stigma around female sexuality, and encourage the normalization of female pleasure.”

According to Bored Panda, each woman was given her own toy then was “left to do her thing.” The 4 frames of each completed piece show the changes in their expressions. Their faces range from hesitant and nervous to relaxed and laughing.

Some of our favorite chapters of the series (which is likely best scrolled through at home) follow.

1)

Credit: The O Project

2)

Credit: The O Project

3)

Credit: The O Project

4)

Credit: The O Project

5)

Credit: The O Project

6)

Credit: The O Project

7)

Credit: The O Project

8)

Credit: The O Project

9)

Credit: The O Project

10)

Credit: The O Project

11)

Credit: The O Project

12)

Credit: The O Project

13)

Credit: The O Project

14)

Credit: The O Project

15)

Credit: The O Project

16)

Credit: The O Project

17)

Credit: The O Project

18)

Credit: The O Project

19)

Credit: The O Project

20)

Credit: The O Project

The takeaway from the series is this: don’t let anyone shame you for a natural expression which is necessary in order to ensure the survival of the human race. While there are valid reasons to abstain from sex and masturbation (spirituality and health, primarily), suppression of sexuality oftentimes results in addictive tendencies and unhappiness, in general.

What are your thoughts? Please comment below and share this news!

h/t Bored Panda