Madeleine Anne Johnson

Casual Cruelty was inspired by Johnson’s personal exploration of the New York pigeon’s plight, from beloved companion and loyal messenger, to misunderstood “pest”.

Her documentary-style photographs capture intimate moments between pigeons and the people that care for them. She juxtaposes these images with close-up and almost humorous, isolated portraits of the birds to emphasize their natural beauty and unexpected personalities. Together, these photographs spark a conversation about the ways in which value is assigned to urban life.Through this work, she challenges the current narrative surrounding pigeons, reclaiming the reverence they once held while highlighting the often-overlooked yet meaningful relationships between people and the creatures they coexist with. 

Madeleine’s practice explores the intersections of nature, urban life, and human connection. She will receive her BFA in Photography from Parsons School of Design in 2025, and she received her AFA in 2022.