As a proud Arabana, Mudbura, Gurindji and Warlpiri woman, Colleen Raven Strangways’ photography is infused with a spirit of activism and acknowledgement, sparked by her relationship with courageous First Nations women and her trailblazing father. Strangways’ is driven to take photos of Aboriginal culture and tell the positive stories of the strength and beauty she sees in her community. Her portraits are an energising force and a counterpoint to archival photos our society has become accustomed to seeing of Aboriginal people in despair. Her new series will illuminate and immerse visitors in the stories and songlines of First Nations Elders as ‘knowledge holders’. The work reveals a feeling of their connectedness, movement and spirituality, Strangways enhances the pivotal role of culture in our society.

“I would like to give my thanks and gratitude to my team Keisha Weetra and Zane Weetra who assisted and used their creative endeavours to help make this series of works and to my models who trusted in my creative ideas and sat for me for hours to allow me to paint their story on their skin. And lastly, my family and community, without them, I would not have the strong cultural strength and knowledge of our kinship, language, and stories to put into these artworks. It's the deep connection to our roots and the ongoing support and encouragement that fuel my artistic journey. Together, we celebrate the preservation and sharing of our cultural heritage, and I am profoundly grateful for the love and inspiration. Ngurku.” – Colleen Raven Strangways