Several contemporary performance artists such as , and use their own nude bodies or other performers in their work.
Through each era, the nude has reflected changes in cultural attitudes regarding sexuality, gender roles, and social structure.
The nude or figure study of a rapidly became an important part of artistic practice and training, and remained so until the 20th century.
In paintings like 's The Origin of the World and 's Reclining Girl, women are depicted with open legs, implying that they are to be passive and an object to be used.