Growing up in China, Pixy Liao’s ideas about romantic relationships were shaped by ideas of finding an alternative father-figure; in her own words, someone “older...” or “a mentor and protector”. But it was not until she decided to move to the United States that she fell in love.

In her ongoing series Experimental Relationship (2007 – present), she playfully (and obsessively) captures herself and her boyfriend Moro in different intimate settings and positions. The point is to subvert preconceptions of what a heterosexual relationship looks like by playing at and with dominance.

Interestingly, these images of ‘female dominance’ appear not dominant at all. The magnifying glass in the centre of the image situates us, the viewer, as the examiners of their kiss. Liao leaves judgement of their dynamics open to interpretation, but we are given prompts: while Liao’s enlarged lips hint at domination, the shutter is left in Moro’s hands. If he is clicking the button, but she is directing the image for the viewer, what or whom is being subverted?

LUJAINA YOUSSEF is a student and writer interested in affective philosophies and aesthetics. Her main focus is the intersection of critical theory, contemporary art, and literature. She has previously contributed to various grassroots leftist political publications, and is currently editorial assistant at Foam Magazine.