Actually, very few people are absolutely certain of the official proper name for this particular male garment. Every language has both an “official” (proper) name for the garment with many colloquial (unofficial) names used by the general public.
The undisputed label is “athletic supporter.” Although first used for bicyclists, the popularity of athletics for younger people caused the usage to broaden into all areas of sports.
Essentially, the garment – a form of underwear – is masculine and utilized to protect the extended anatomical offerings for that gender. Comparable to the “bra” worn by women. The purpose of this male garment is to offer support and limited protection for the testicles.
Felipe Ferreira rotating in an athletic supporter!
The name first used to promote the style of underwear was “bicycle supporter.” In the 1890’s it was sold primarily to cyclists to be worn while riding (jockey) a bicycle on bumpy, uneven and unpaved roads. The purpose was to prevent damage and/or discomfort to the man in his genitalia.
Soon, the popular garment came to be known as a “jockey strap” until the early 1960’s when the slang name (street name) was shortened to “jock strap.”
The popularity of men being commando (not wearing any underwear) under their shorts or pants has mistakenly been thought as synonymous with wearing an athletic supporter.
It is also referred to as a “genital girdle” or “genitalia girdle” although that is discouraged by the general public.
Naked hugs!
Roger Poladopoulos/ReNude Pride
Author’s Note: The next post entry for here is planned for Friday, November 18, 2022, and the proposed topic is: “Friday Footnote: Bullying!”
Now that I’ve captured your undivided attention and curiosity with my AKA (also known as) alternate title for today’s posting, Modelling Legacy. Growing up, I’d never even considered modelling while bare as a job option. Our parents always emphasized education, specifically university, which, for a Deaf gay adolescent eliminated posing clothes free as a lifetime career. The sole focus was knowledge, then employment.
While studying to earn my baccalaureate degree, I learned the both the fine art program and the photography art program at my university employed post-graduate students to pose as naked models for respective under-graduate (baccalaureate) classes. An ideal job for me to begin after being awarded my inaugural degree! Perfect for my bare practitioner (gay nudist) self! I could now be paid to be clothes free all day long on campus!
The summer after my university graduation seemed to me as endless. I was anxious and eager to begin my “career” as a nude model. I wasn’t an art student at university and had almost no interaction with any of those who had posed clothes free prior to me.
Leafy posing!
As the September of my post-graduate student life arrived, my limited (non-existent) contact with the university’s “model” team was solely with a member of the adjunct art faculty also served as the academic advisor to the school’s Lavender Club (at that time, the bisexual, gay and lesbian student group). As the club’s advisor, he knew that I was same gender loving but only aware of my nudist preference upon receipt of my application for the modelling programme.
He immediately acknowledged my enthusiasm for any and all opportunities to pose naked. He inquired of my knowledge of and/or interest in Washington, D.C.’s gay nudist social group, Lambda Soleil. He later introduced me to the organization and sponsored my membership therein.
Leafy prostration!
The Leaf Incident:
My first working day as a bare model was a “double” engagement. In the late morning, I posed inside one of the art studios for a class of first year art students. It wasn’t a surprise job as all it entailed was sitting on a stool in front of the class – totally naked. The major task was remaining still (lifeless) for ninety minutes.
Later that afternoon, with two other nude models, we posed outdoors in a massive pile of leaves for a photography class. This assignment, as explained by our model coordinator, involved us interacting with one another and, of course, with the leaves. The students were expected to capture on film a series of photos depicting autumn play.
Once the class assembled, I realized that all five of the students were gay. Our model advisor had not shared this to any of us before we agreed to this session. As an openly gay man myself, it was no problem for me. None of the other models seemed bothered by this. While the class was taking pictures, it was revealed by our modelling “boss” that the purpose of this photo-shoot was to show gay men in autumn play!
The two others that were modelling with me on this project were both several years older than me and with previous modelling experience at the university. One – whom I recognized – had been a member of the Lavender Club and identified as a bisexual man. The other one I never knew his sexuality.
Our “boss-man” appeared on site just as we were about to start our modelling exercise. He was introduced to the class by the instructor and as he reviewed the university’s guidelines for working with bare models (no personal or intimate contact allowed) he began stripping off his clothes! He was present to “supervise” our photo-shoot!
Receiving directions for a photo-shoot session!
I immediately began asking myself: did he need to be naked in order to supervise us posing nude? Was he going to be at every photo-shoot clothes free? Given all the attention he had given me during the last couple of weeks, the other models let me know that he obviously had an ulterior motive for stripping off his garments!
Once the photography instructor signaled “commence” we became active with our pile (mountain) of leaves. We took dives into leaves, we rolled in the leaves, we buried ourselves in leaves and gave each other leaf “showers!” There were only a small number of activities that we didn’t attempt to engage in. Cameras captured our images as we caroused ourselves in leaves!
After an hour of “playing” and posing in the leaves, I became light-headed and had trouble breathing. Suddenly, I fainted! Down on the ground! The next thing that I was aware was lying on my back after being revived by a nurse from the university clinic. A few minutes later, a mobile trauma unit arrived to transport me to the GWU (George Washington University) hospital. My face and neck were flushed (red) and heavily swollen, I continued to have shortness of breath and a severe bruise and laceration on the back of my head. I was kept overnight in hospital for monitoring and test results.
I have a severe allergy to leaf mold. It had never affected me previously. However, I never remember being that involved with that amount of moldy leaves before for that amount of time – almost 90 minutes.
Shortly after I returned to campus, a notice was displayed on the message board adjacent to the administration offices of the School of Art, Photography and Media:
“Roger does not play well with leaves!”
Naked hugs!
Roger Poladopoulos/ReNude Pride
Author’s Note: The next post entry for here is planned for Sunday, November 6, 2022, and the proposed topic is: “Clocks Back!”
There have been times in our lives when we have looked upon a picture and wondered: What is the meaning of this? Either the subject or the actual photographer (or perhaps both) are communicating but…what is the message?
Is he bidding farewell?
Is he expressing sorrow?
Gratitude?
Remorse?
Humility?
Sometimes, communicating using body language (expressions, body positioning) is very similar to using sign language (the communication language for us Deaf persons). Body language may not have the grammar and syntax that sign language does but both are visual instead of hearing.
Task:
With the popularity of today’s “selfie” photography, think of a message that you would like to convey to others. Consider your options for posing and then capture your pose in a photo. Share your images with friends – fellow bare practitioners if you posed naked – and ask if they understand your meaning or purpose.
Have fun engaging in your body language assignment!
Naked hugs!
Roger Poladopoulos/ReNude Pride
Author’s Note: The next post entry here is planned for Friday, October 28, 2022, and the proposed topic is: “Felipe: Tattoo Costume!”
In everyday vernacular “barrier” is often interpreted as a blockage, an impediment and/or a challenge that must be overcome. In today’s title, bare-ier, is intended to imply that we are breaking (destroying, eliminating, eradicating, removing) the perceived challenge to being bare (clothes free, naked, nude). ReNude Pride is truly one “safe space” for body and clothes freedom!
In the early days of photography, especially here in the USA, the segregation (legal separation) of the population by racial identity was not only widely practiced but in many states (especially in the south) was mandated (required) by law. This was based on the philosophy that prevailed throughout the southern states of “separate but equal.” In reality, the separation was strictly enforced and the equality was nonexistent.
All men, vintage and together!
Photographs from the early days to the latter third of the 20th Century rarely depicted interracial individuals in contact and congeniality with one another. The laws and traditions of the American society were observed and strictly followed. Few photographers and/or models had the courage to ignore the constraints and restrictions imposed by the mainstream population. The capture of these few people all together was extremely rare, and especially if they were completely clothes free and visibly engaged as legitimate equals!
However, after the end of World War II, the executive order of then-President Harry Truman, decreed the end of enforced segregation of the entire U.S.A. military, naval and air forces. Times were changing and a few photographers and their subjects came forward to celebrate this bold progressive measure. A significant number of those brave souls were from our “closeted” (secretive) community of same gender loving men.
Bare and unashamed!
The post-war world delivered everyone into a changing life situation. Allies during the war became enemies. Enemies during the war became comrades and the regimented structure of society began to lose some of the class-consciousness that held different people apart. Gradually, familiarity replaced judgment in personal interactions. The military abandoning the racial segregation – long considered a stalwart among the majority – opened the eyes of some with foresight into a glimmer of new possibilities.
The ideal of “it is our tradition” began to weaken as the notion of “let’s see what else we can do” grew in importance. Custom and habit no longer kept individuals tied to a repressive and restricted environment.
Bare boxing!
As the walls that divided different classes (socio-economic groups) of people began to slowly disperse, the eradication of separation between persons of differing ethnic, cultural and racial backgrounds began to decline also. This change didn’t occur suddenly – it was an eventual shifting of bias, distrust and prejudices as the general society embarked on the slow, incremental process of enlightenment and evolution in a changing world order.
The late 1940’s soon became the 1950’s and economic, political and social change lost the incredibility and novelty it once generated. Colonial states moved towards independence and traditional authority concepts began to recede into obscurity. The long accepted practice of unquestioned following to the “status quo” declined.
Interracial embrace!
While these opinion and outlook shifts happened in the broader society, subtle opportunities appeared in the same gender loving world as well. Still largely illegal and isolated, small groups of “homosexual” (bisexual, gay and lesbian) persons carefully and cautiously emerged into the larger urban areas – still discreet and secretive but no longer totally isolated.
The 1960’s introduced public protests and general boycotts into the social change movement. African-Americans, women, immigrant farm workers and other minorities usually overlooked by the powered-few (white males) started their own campaigns for social acceptance and equality. The momentum for change gained strength and attention. In 1961, the state of Illinois repealed the illegality of the “homosexuals” – the first political jurisdiction in the country to outlaw the banishment and shame normally and universally thrown against the “social deviants.”
The seeds of change and progress were planted. By the end of the decade, on June 28, 1969, the lion started to roar and the march for equality and freedom for all same gender loving peoples launched itself!
Naked hugs!
Roger Poladopoulos/ReNude Pride
The next post entry here is planned for Monday, October 17, 2022, and the proposed topic is: “Autumn Arrival!”
Openly gay artist, Ainor Bagner, of Denmark – himself plainly nude – paints a fellow naked subject reading a book. The sexuality of the reader is unknown. Bagner was an admitted same gender loving man in an age that was hostile to those types of attractions and relationships. The clothing status and sexuality of the photographer is also unknown.
In the lower right-hand corner of the picture image is etched “1910.” More than a century ago. The photograph was made on the North Sea coast of Denmark.
A photographer from our past!
The artistic painter, Ainor Bagner, featured in the iconic photograph, was openly a gay man, then it is within reason to anticipate the same from both the subject model and the photographer. In the very early days of the 20th century, the tolerance for gay people was very restricted, even in a fairly progressive society such as Denmark (Scandinavia). The fact that this image survived all this time contributes to it’s historical significance.
Somewhat ironic is the fact that in the iconic photograph, a bare model is painted by a bare artist and that they are both posing on a barren (rocky) landscape. Bare – as opposed to barren – comfort and freedom for everyone!
The secondary image, above, is a vintage picture of a photographer posing with his camera on a ladder. This has no relationship to the Bagner photo except to represent the possible source of the image. This is not the actual photographer!
Naked hugs!
Roger Poladopoulos/ReNude Pride
Author’s Note: The next post entry here is planned for Friday, October 7, 2022, and the proposed topic is: “Waving Above Us!”
When Roger, my spouse, invited me to write another post for here, I knew immediately the topic that I wanted to address: a title page for a bare practitioners photo album. One that will prepare whoever is preparing to turn the page for whatever amount of bare bodies they are about to encounter! These are my ideas on some ideal eye-opening and tasteful images to employ!
The photograph (above) shows a group of nature (naked, natural) men congregating under a sign labeled: The Trails. Obviously, the entrance to a park nature trail. And all the men are identical (completely bare) and ready to explore nature naturally! The sign and the crew set the mood for what the album features: bare practitioners having fun, together!
The use of signage is always a good tool to convey meaning and content. Placing it on the title page of a photo album lets the viewers know what is following.
Same entrance, different view!
Sometimes, it isn’t always necessary to offer the humanity of us bare practitioners along with the signage. The offering below shows exactly what I mean!
Sign of caution at a clothing optional beach!
The simple wordage on the above sign makes sure all viewing the title page know what is pictured in this particular album – continue to peruse if you dare! What lies ahead is fully explained to everyone!
The simpler the message, the clearer the understanding!
With some signs, no detail is subject to confusion or misunderstanding. The above sample for the title page let’s everyone know for a fact that the album’s creator/owner is both without clothing and shame!
Justification!
The facts are displayed in full view and no more explanation is expected or needed. All of us like to feel comfortable – either individually or as a group effort!
Bare is fun for everyone!
A “fun and games” activity can be a fun game for everyone: observers as well as participants. Many of those watching secretly wish they had the courage to take off their clothes and join in the festivities. This subtle suggestion can offer a topic for all of those looking through the photograph album to explore!
Sunbathing!
Enjoying the sunshine on a summer day is a pleasant way to explore the benefit of nudity, especially when shared with a friend who gives support and has no qualms about being publicly naked. Sharing pictures such as this on the title page of a book of images is a reminder to others to try the same!
A bare cookout can be very appealing!
Food is another suggestion that can not only remind others of what lies ahead in the album but also capture the fun of clothes freedom and the experiences it provides. Some folks fail to recognize that clothing isn’t necessary to live life successfully!
Social issues!
A social concern expressed on the title page of a picture album – one that is freely shared with others – is a good method of making acquaintances and friends aware of some of the concerns facing our community and culture. It’s often a good way to educate others of our social issues that we have to face daily!
Nude photographer and nude subject: a perfect pair!
Another great title page example is one featuring a bare practitioner cameraman capturing a bare practitioner model. Our comfort with our nakedness is one of the many reasons most of us maintain a naked photograph album. The old saying: “a picture speaks a thousand words” is proven again to be true and valid!
The underlying purpose for this entry and the images here is to offer ideas and suggestions for everyone’s creative designs. Use the ones here or make your own. The important message is to inform all viewing your album’s title page is that full nakedness lies ahead!
Naked hugs!
Me recovering after posting this article!
Aaron Michael Peterson-Poladopoulos/ReNude Pride
Author’s Note: First, I want to thank Aaron for his composition of the above post entry here. Love you, man! The next article for here is planned for Friday, September 16, 2022, and the proposed topic is: “Footnote Friday: News!”
The first Monday in September, annually, in the USA is the national holiday known as Labor Day – in honour of those who work hard and keep the nation’s economy healthy. Originally conceived for hourly manual workers, it now includes all workers, both blue-collar (manual) and white-collar (executive) workers!
Kory Mitchell: American laborer #1!
Despite posing with construction equipment, Labor Day is regarded as a holiday for all professions. It is also often unofficially determined to be the last day of the summer season!
Kory Mitchell: American laborer #2!
Kory Mitchell: a smiling Labor Day celebrant!
Happy Labor Day! If living in the USA, then have a safe and successful holiday.
Naked hugs!
Roger Poladopoulos/ReNude Pride
Author’s Note: The next post entry for here is planned for Friday, September 9, 2022, and the proposed topic is: “Words Of Wisdom!”
Posing bare, happy and together! A tribute to nude photography and all naked posers!
This posting here on ReNude Pride is dedicated as a tribute to all of us bare practitioners who take the energy and the time to share all of ourselves – without any guilt, regrets or shame – with others who look at our photo albums or our walls where we hang pictures! We know for a fact that there is absolutely nothing wrong or vulgar about being “as we are” – naturally! Our lives are honest and open so why bother with concealment and deceit?
Bare practitioner strolling together oceanfront!
Our comfort with our nakedness is not an aspect of perversion as much as it is a basic characteristic of our lives and our comfort level. For us, clothing and covering is a bother and an inconvenience. It may be required by law in public but in honesty and privacy, it is simply who we truly are! There is no reason for any discomfort, guilt or shame in enjoying ourselves clothes free!
“I like me better naked. I don’t mean that in a vain way…When you put clothes on, you immediately put a character on. Clothes are adjectives, they are indicators. When you don’t have any clothes on, it’s just you, raw: you can’t hide.” ~ Padma Lakshmi, Indian author ~
Unashamed tattoo!
Our man above wants to remind us all of his bold and proud assurance of his nakedness. He has the word “unashamed” in a tattoo in his groin area, just above his pubic hair. Good job. Nice work! Confess your confidence, man!
Some simple advice and thoughts on posing as a bare practitioner in today’s often chaotic and hectic world. Have fun and remember to smile for the camera!
We are all bare practitioners here (GLBTQ+ naturists/nudists) so everyone act, look and pose as natural as you feel. Be naked. Be proud. Be proudly nude!
First advisory:
There is absolutely no need to be ashamed or embarrassed over any part of your physical anatomy.
Sunbathing!
Second advisory:
Nudity is a significant aspect of our bare practitioner lives. Casual and close contact happens in life as well as spontaneous photography. Accept it and move along in happiness!
Togetherness!
Third advisory:
Sometimes, a “planned” pose enhances our life – and makes us all laugh. Remember: laughter is, after all, the best medicine!
Angelic pose!
Fourth advisory:
Natural reactions are basically just what they are labeled – natural. It is just a part of life, so just be normal.
Semi-erect photographer!
Just a few observations to pass along to everyone. With slightly less than a full month left in the Northern Hemisphere’s 2022 Summer remaining, grab your camera and your friends and Make Memories today!
FYI: My “dearly beloved” (Roger) has asked that I do another post in September. I’ve picked a subject and am already working on a draft!
Naked hugs!
Aaron Michael Peterson-Poladopoulos/ReNude Pride
Author’s Note: My spouse, Aaron, composed this post entry here today. Thank you, Aaron, for your effort! The next entry here is planned for Wednesday, August 31, 2022, and the proposed topic is: “Bottoms-Up! August, 2022”
A salute to all bare practitioner photographers everywhere!
As we enter into the final half of the month of August, 2022, it is appropriate to acknowledge all of those of us who help the rest of us recall and ponder the wonderful events and friends that have made our lives so much fun! Thank you for enabling the cold and frigid days of the winter to become somewhat enjoyable and filled with fun and laughter and photographs of our bare times together!
Forward Notation:
I apologize for the confusion here. Last Friday I published today’s post entry as “Is Pride Necessary.” I had completely forgotten about today’s post entry as being already scheduled. “Is Pride Necessary” will publish this upcoming Friday, August 26, 2022, and once again, I regret the confusion on my part!
Natural photographer in nature!
I especially want to commend my spouse, Aaron, for all of his work with his camera in capturing the images of myself and our families and friends. They may not all be bare practitioners with the both of us, but they do liven up our photo albums at home! Aaron will author a post one week from today dealing with posing clothes free and creating a bare practitioner photo album.
Indoor photographer!
For the bare practitioner community, there is no mandate or rule that our photographers must be just as bare as we are. However, it is a common courtesy that in order to make everyone comfortable and relaxed, a naked camera operator is a welcome addition to any gathering. Her/his presence with a camera and without clothing encourages everyone to concentrate on the company and the purpose – taking pictures, posing and having a good time!
Ready to shoot: bare with camera!
Creating photographs and images while totally naked eliminates the distinction between the photographer (camera operator) and those being photographed (posers, subjects). All of a sudden, removing all clothing, everyone becomes equal and relaxed. A separation (clothing versus nakedness) is eradicated and is easily replaced by trust.
Naked hugs!
Roger Poladopoulos/ReNude Pride
Author’s Note: The next post entry here is planned for Friday, August 26, 2022, and the proposed topic is: “Is Pride Necessary?”
ReNude Pride: Guys Without Boxers! 