Pixy Liao’s Intimate Photography Deconstructs Gender Dynamics

The personal series depicts Liao and her boyfriend, Moro, who is Japanese and five years younger than her, in a variety of scenarios that reflect the intricacies of their relationship, turning gender role associations (for example, male-as-provider) on their head. “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… I felt that whole concept of relationships changed, all the way around,” explains Liao. “My photos explore the alternative possibilities of heterosexual relationships. They question what is the norm of heterosexual relationships? (And) what will happen if man and woman exchange their roles of sex and roles of power?” Her first solo show, “Lady & Gentleman” is now on at Malmö’s Galleri Vasli Souza until 22 April 2017.