November 11, 2010
Rhapsody for my Wretched Little Universe
Originally published on metropolis.co.jp on November 2010 The demographic trends resulting from its famous “one-child” policy—plenty of male offspring but fewer lassies—mean that China should get used to the idea of a burgeoning gay population. Offering an intriguing insight into the country’s present-day gay scene is Rhapsody for my Wretched Little Universe, at the often […]
By Metropolis
Originally published on metropolis.co.jp on November 2010
Courtesy of Zen Foto
The demographic trends resulting from its famous “one-child” policy—plenty of male offspring but fewer lassies—mean that China should get used to the idea of a burgeoning gay population. Offering an intriguing insight into the country’s present-day gay scene is Rhapsody for my Wretched Little Universe, at the often interesting Zen Foto Gallery. The exhibition presents works by Han Chao, an openly gay artist who unflinchingly documents his own life. The intimate photos of friends and lovers and other aspects of his world build up an interesting mood and aesthetic that combines elements of squalor and shame with beauty and defiance. To prevent Chao’s often explicit work being “misunderstood” in transit by customs officials, Zen Foto are taking the trouble to print some of the more risqué images themselves.
Zen Foto Gallery
Han Chao. Rhapsody for my Wretched Little Universe. Until Nov 21, free. 2-17-3 Shibuya, Shibuya-ku. Open Wed-Fri noon-7pm, Sat-Sun noon-5pm, closed Mon-Tue. Nearest stn: Shibuya. www.zen-foto.jp
