A liquid crystal element achieving both optical control utilizing a memory property and optical control capable of supporting moving image displays is disclosed. The first substrate and the second substrate of the element are set in an orientation process direction that ensures generation of a first orientation state, and a chiral material that generates a second orientation state is included in the liquid crystal layer. The layer transitions from the second orientation state to the first orientation state when an electric field of a layer thickness direction is applied. The layer transitions from the first orientation state to the second orientation state when an electric field of a direction perpendicular to the layer thickness direction is applied. And the layer returns to the second orientation state when an orientation change is generated according to the strength of the electric field when an electric field of the perpendicular direction is applied.