CHRISTINA YAO - EXPOSURE EMERGING PHOTOGRAPHERS SHOWCASE

We want to be seen; we have the urge to connect, yet we worry about exposing our true selves. Our relationship with ourselves affects our relationship with others. Sometimes, we seek outward acceptance but do not take the time to look inward. Perhaps we have a hard time truly accepting and understanding ourselves. Exploring and reflecting on moments of self-doubt takes courage. Giving permission to ourselves to be vulnerable and authentic makes us and our relationships stronger.

I’m drawn to explore human relationships within my work because they are complex, dynamic, and often unpredictable. I photograph friends of varying nationalities and sexual orientations, often inspired by their personal stories and life interests. I’m fascinated by what the camera can see and what my subjects want to reveal.

"Near or Far" is an ongoing series of images that involves a constant negotiation of power, trust, intimacy, and communication.

BIOGRAPHY

Christina Yao is a multi-disciplinary artist based in Calgary, focusing on photography, sculpture, video, installation, and curation. Born and raised in China, she has lived and worked in various countries including the U.S., Colombia, and Canada, which have significantly influenced her creative practice. She is currently completing her BDes in Photography at the Alberta University of the Arts, where she was the recent recipient of the Teatro Group Travel Scholarship and The M. James and Elsie Mathieson Scholarship. Her works have been exhibited at The Marion Nicoll Gallery, TRUCK Contemporary Art, cSPACE, The Bows and Arts Commons. She recently curated a group exhibition featuring three BIPOC female artists at The New Gallery.