DEEPER DARKER BRIGHTER by Pamela Bain and Carolyn Lewens

Conveying the wonder of science through art, Pamela Bain and Carolyn Lewens explore the universe with Swinburne University's Centre for Astrophysics and Computing, resulting in an odyssey of aesthetic and sensory experiences. DEEPER DARKER BRIGHTER is a creative response to an astrophysics program that is searching for the fastest explosions in the universe. The artists, present for real-time space observations, were stimulated by bombardments of astronomical imagery, data, and technology that inspired these new bodies of work.The exhibition will offer an immersive and stimulating space wherein fresh awareness of the cosmos and science is mediated via aesthetic and conceptual means.

"Through a Portal Lightly". © Pamela Bain.
"Through a Portal Lightly". © Pamela Bain.

About the artists

Pamela Bain: In 2016, Pamela Bain was invited to a ‘live to the sky’ astrophysics observation of the Universe hosted by Swinburne University of Technology. This deeply personal experience enabled the artist to connect more closely with her muse and has resulted in a body of work as an In-House Artist with Swinburne’s Centre for Astrophysics and Supercomputing. Entering the rarefied world of physics, big data, and deep space phenomenon has signalled the beginning of a new phase in Bain’s creative evolution. 

"Bursting Light". © Pamela Bain.
"Bursting Light". © Pamela Bain.

Carolyn Lewens: has been the recipient of grants and awards – notably Australia Council, Arts Victoria and Regional Arts Victoria, CCP best work on an Environmental Theme, best in Black & White and several Linden Postcard awards. She has had numerous artist-in-residencies, taught Photomedia at Monash, exhibition practice at RMIT, and was in charge of the Art Major Photography stream at PSC.

In the Photic Zone. © Carolyn Lewens.
In the Photic Zone. © Carolyn Lewens.
"Light Phenomenon". © Carolyn Lewens.
"Light Phenomenon". © Carolyn Lewens.

Upcoming Events Submit an Event

May

Melbourne: Until March 2027. Rehearsing the City presents archival photographs from Victoria’s government collections, alongside new work by contemporary street photographers.

June

Sydney: Until 7 Feb 2027. From his archive of more than 200,000 images, Close Up celebrates the historic moments and pivotal people he famously captured.

Brisbane: until 18 October 2026. Known affectionately as the ‘Cool Cat of journalism’ Wayne moved effortlessly among the greats, between the media and community, treating every encounter as part of his day’s work behind the lens.

July

Melbourne: Until 30 September 2026. Melbourne photographer Stefanie Wendler-Canning is inviting visitors to see one of the garden's most familiar flowers from an entirely different perspective in her new exhibition.

August

Melbourne: Until 15 November 2026. This exhibition will present the most comprehensive survey of the work of the eminent Hungarian-born, French photographer Brassaï yet to be seen in Australia.

Sydney: Until 13 September 2026. Devotion is an ongoing series by Sly Morikawa documenting Sanja Matsuri, the annual Shinto festival held in Tokyo’s Asakusa district.

Brisbane: Until 1 November 2026. The finalist exhibition of the 2026 Lord Mayor’s Photographic Awards brings together striking photographic works that capture the city’s spirit — from familiar streets and riverside scenes to the fleeting moments, routines and characters that make Brisbane feel like home.

Sydney: 24 August 2026 – 18 July 2027. Featuring almost 200 images and original prints personally selected by Dupain for magazine and book publishers, the exhibition reveals the extraordinary breadth of his work.

Sydney: Until 13 September 2026. Olive Cotton is one of Australia's great modern photographers. For the first time, her workd is being exhibited alongside photographs by some of the most celebrated figures in international photography, including Ilse Bing, Dora Marr and Lucia Moholy.

Sydney: Until 13 September. 'Once upon a time...' invites you on a journey through diverse narrative worlds. The exhibition brings together a curated collection of works from 13 exceptional contemporary photographers – showcasing premier Australian and international talent.