Submerged Vibrancy

Colleen Stevenson is a Brisbane-based photographer whose practice began as a pathway to healing after the loss of her son, David. Drawn to quiet, often overlooked spaces in the city - such as Raven Street Reserve - she captures moments where refracted light transforms landscapes into abstract narratives, inviting viewers to reflect and find beauty in the everyday.

A committed member of the Lotus Art Group and Brisbane Outsider Artists at Access Arts, Colleen is also a passionate advocate for Forgotten Australians. Her work includes a published photographic memoir with the Alliance of Forgotten Australians, a solo exhibition, and numerous group shows, including regular contributions to Access Arts’ annual exhibitions. Through her evocative imagery, she amplifies overlooked stories, embodying resilience, beauty, and the transformative power of art.

In 'Submerged Vibrancy', I paint and draw with photography to create a camera-less image alive with colour and layered form. Using carefully curated found, natural, and human-made objects, I scan and distort each element under light. The result is a vivid, abstract composition that invites viewers to look deeper - beyond the surface. This work continues my exploration of memory, healing, and transformation through light, revealing beauty in unexpected places and moments.