It Can Be Better

It Can Be Better meditates on a household’s observed living habits that seek perfection, yet carry the potential to backfire.

The series depict intentions which result in rigid control on everyday items and spaces. To achieve the ideal order or hygiene, a pursuit of immaculateness is undertaken. However, these behaviours render the subjects’ original purpose counterproductive, absurd or even useless. The fruitless outcome is an irony to the initial wishes of attaining a pristine state.

The paradox presented in the photos is hence a conception of humans’ obsessive need to dominate their living environment and the unforeseen consequences that follow.

Liu Ying (b. 1990, Singapore) is interested in the human condition. Photography is her approach to contemplate the sights and stories around her. She believes that a photograph can be, and should be, introspective for both the photographer and the viewer.

She holds a Bachelor of Fine Arts (Honours) in Photography and Digital Imaging at School of Art, Design and Media in Nanyang Technological University. Her works have been exhibited at Noise Singapore The Apprenticeship Programme (2013), Pingyao Photo Festival (2014) and Asian Women Photographers’ Showcase (2015).

Photographs & Text: Liu Ying | Website: http://liuying.me