PIXY LIAO’s MESMERIZING WORLD
Her Experimental Relationship At Fotografiska
In an emblematic 2008 image, Pixy Liao pinches the nipple of her underwear-clad muse and significant other. Her short, cropped hair and flared pant legs complement the tones of red which appear in her fingernail polish, the frilled blouse she wears, and the dustpan positioned to the side. The photograph was captured in the relatively early days of Liao’s Experimental Relationship project when female dominance ruled artistically, intrepidly countering the conventional, cookie-cutter forms of a male-governed relationship.
The Shanghai-native’s long-term collaboration with her Japanese partner, Moro, has now spanned over 15 years, the project assuming new forms with the natural shifts of a romantic partnership. Liao spoke with PROVOKR on the evolution of the work, stating, “Now, Moro is more experienced than I am in some areas, which has changed our relationship and created a new sense of balance. As a result, my photography has started to show more equal composition.”
On view at Fotografiska New York until September 5, 2021, and curated by Holly Roussell, Your Gaze Belongs to Me showcases over 50 pieces of work, extending past Liao’s standard photographic work. “Not only is this my first museum exhibition,” notes the artist, “but it is the first time my photography, sculpture, video, and installation work has been presented together […] I am able to see how I have grown from a young woman who was just starting out and trying to discover herself, into the more mature woman that I am today.”
Liao’s inherent intuitions appear to dwell in a place of artistic trust and conviction. When speaking on her creative motivations, the need for targets, agendas, or detailed plans are lightly dismissed. “I don’t have a strong feeling of anticipation for the future,” comments Liao. “I try to leave myself open to extreme possibilities.” The photography speaks for itself and aesthetic appeal effortlessly takes up space within the depth of the imagery. Liao summons the sense of something intrinsically warm, bright, and entertaining, while also challenging, perplexing, and bemusing. A hot slap in the face to the norms built around heterosexual couplings, the work delights, profounds, and leaves the viewer wanting more.
To learn more about the exhibition, visit here.
