Gallery's Engagement with Social Issues
When it came to sexuality, Gallery often went beyond simply exploring sexual practices and taboos. In addition to its focus on body parts, positions, and techniques, it also engaged with social issues related to sexuality, such as consent, sexual health, and gender equality. One example is an article on "The Ethics of Kink," which discussed the idea that some forms of BDSM may violate ethical standards set forth in the BDSM community, such as safewords and safe spaces. This article positioned Gallery as a socially conscious publication within adult media. It helped elevate Gallery's credibility and relevance beyond purely erotic content, particularly among readers interested in kink who were concerned about their personal safety and well-being.
Another example is an article titled "Bondage for All," which explored how bondage can be used in nonsexual contexts, such as for relaxation or therapeutic purposes. By presenting bondage in this way, Gallery challenged traditional assumptions about what constitutes normal or acceptable sexual behavior. The author argued that if society can accept the use of bondage in other contexts, why shouldn't it be accepted in sexual ones? This article was written at a time when the mainstream was just beginning to recognize the existence of alternative sexualities like kink, and it helped make those communities feel seen and heard.
"Sexual Diversity" took a different tack by emphasizing the importance of diversity in sexual expression. It argued that there is no one right way to have sex, and that all expressions should be celebrated. The article encouraged readers to explore their own boundaries and desires and not to judge others based on their preferences. In doing so, it promoted tolerance and understanding while also addressing issues around body image, self-esteem, and consent.
Gallery's engagement with social issues related to sexuality ultimately made it more than just another porn magazine. It showed that it was willing to challenge conventional ideas and promote progressive values. This added depth and nuance to its content and resonated with readers who wanted to see more from adult media than just titillation and exploitation. As such, these articles helped establish Gallery as a respected voice within the adult industry, paving the way for future publications to follow suit.