In this self-published volume, Shanghai-based Japanese/Chinese photographer and stylist Lehysl sets out to ‘talk about romance with connection to Kinbaku, and the difference between Japanese and Chinese women in terms of strength and fragility.’ What struck me about her approach is the difference in expression we find in her photos, meaning that where the approach Lehysl takes at first glance appears to be one far more common in the male gaze. As we look at her images, we are made aware – and are not a little surprised – to realise that the expression of emotions like irritation, humiliation, anger or resignation that we have become so habituated to in works where women are the subject of the male gaze that we barely register it, are markedly absent here.

For information contact Lehysl on: lehysl@icloud.com