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

November

Brisbane: Until 13 July 2025. Amateur Brisbane photographer Alfred Henrie Elliott (1870-1954) extraordinary images lay dormant for decades until they were discovered only recently. This exhibition is curated by seven Brisbane photographers.

Sydney: The photographs in Max Dupain: Student Life were taken at the University of Sydney in the early 1950s, a period of rapid change marked by the politics of the Cold War.

Perth: Until 18 May 2025. Henry Roy – Impossible Island draws on 40-years of recollections and observations as it brings together 113 photos taken from 1983 to 2023.

December

Melbourne: Until 31 January. Prepare to be transported into the picturesque world of Accidentally Wes Anderson: The Exhibition—an Instagram sensation and New York Times best-selling book brought to life!

Sydney: 5 December – 1 February. Photofields presents the Southern Sky Astrophotography 2024 exhibition, the 20th edition of the David Malin Awards.

Melbourne: until 16 Feb 2025. Petrina Hicks works with photography to create large-scale photographs that draw from mythology, fables, and historical art imagery to reframe the contemporary female experience.

Sydney: Until 31 Dec 2025. PIX, Australia’s first pictorial news weekly, is brought to life in this exhibition, showcasing its archived images and stories for the very first time.