A boyfriend served up for breakfast and a forest floor burning in the shape of a deer: this new exhibition shows just how much thought goes into a staged photograph

Two new exhibitions at CPW in Kingston, New York showcase the meticulous thought that goes into staged photography. Pixy Liao and Tanya Marcuse, both artists based in New York, present works that demonstrate their deliberate approach to creating compelling images.

Liao, who has been collaborating with her partner Moro for nearly two decades, presents intimate domestic scenes that subvert traditional power dynamics. These staged photographs, such as Moro lying across a kitchen table or Liao carrying him like a sack of laundry, invite viewers to question the relationships depicted and the photographer's role. The inclusion of the shutter release cable in each frame adds a playful element, shifting the viewer's perception of who controls the image.

On the other hand, Marcuse's series "Woven: An Ecological Tapestry" presents a stark contrast. Her images feature a dense assortment of natural materials, such as flowers, bones, antlers, and roots, arranged to create a forest floor landscape. The juxtaposition of spring growth in autumnal settings and the inclusion of various animals and birds encased in ice, paired with fire, evoke a sense of discord with nature and the impact of climate change.

Marcuse's meticulous planning and arrangement of these elements create an unsettling yet thought-provoking commentary on humanity's impact on the environment.

Both exhibitions emphasize the level of thought and care that goes into their respective works, resulting in visually striking and emotionally engaging pieces. Visitors to CPW can experience the diverse range of perspectives and techniques employed by these artists, each creating a unique and memorable photographic journey.