23rd Annual Smithsonian Magazine Photo Contest Artistic
Cupid with a Pearl Earring

This photo is from a series I captured called “Boy With A Pearl Earring”, it reimagines Vermeer’s iconic masterpiece through a bold, mythological lens. Drawing inspiration from Greek mythology, the imagery weaves together classical masculine forms with traditionally feminine jewelry, highlighting society’s growing appreciation for gender-fluid aesthetics. Each model embodies a personal connection to the gods and goddesses they represent— Like how cupid is Hayden Matthews (the model) 's favorite mythological character. Working together with stylist Jaja (Jingxuan Qi), We created a world through the interplay of ancient myth and modern identity, "Boy With A Pearl Earring" is a meditation on fluidity, transformation, and the beauty of self expression.

Photo Detail
Date Taken: 09.2025
Date Uploaded: 12.2025
Photo Location: Georgia, United States of America
Camera: Canon EOS R6
Copyright: © Yoyo Li