In her photography series “Experimental Relationship“, Chinese artist Pixy Liao explores the alternative possibilities of heterosexual relationships. This ongoing project grows with her real relationship with her boyfriend but it is never meant to be a documentation.
“As a woman brought up in China, I used to think I could only love someone who is older and more mature than me, who can be my protector and mentor. Then I met my current boyfriend, Moro. Since he is 5 years younger than me, I felt that whole concept of relationships changed, all the way around.
I became the person who has more authority and power. One of my male friends even questioned how I could choose a boyfriend the way a man would choose a girlfriend. And I thought, “Damn right. That’s exactly what I’m doing, & why not!”
I started to experiment with this relationship. I would set up all kinds of situations for Moro and I to perform in the photos. My photos question what is the norm of heterosexual relationships. What will happen if man & woman exchange their roles of sex & roles of power. Because my boyfriend is Japanese, and I am Chinese, this project also describes a love and hate relationship.”
Liao’s photographs have been exhibited internationally, including He Xiangning Art Museum (China), Asia Society (Houston), Leo Xu Projects (China), Flower Gallery (NY), First Draft Gallery (Sydney), VT Artsalon (Taiwan), Kips Gallery (Korea), The Running Horse Contemporary Art Space (Lebanon), Format (UK), Noorderlicht (Netherland), etc,.
Images couertsy of Pixy Liao
Discover: pixyliao.com
