The latest edition of Muse, features a collaboration between Wyndham photographer and White Night Ballarat exhibitor, Jodie Dickinson, with young South Coast photographers, Jemma Mundy, Mikayla Deards and Shakira Smith.

Jemma, Mikayla and Shakira attended a workshop-based event called mNemosyne Sessions in May this year and their talent both behind and in front of the lens caught the attention of Ms Dickinson.

“These young participants at the workshop offered energy and fun to the day.

“They exhibited a natural eye for composition and confidence to experiment with digital photography techniques behind and in front of the camera,” Ms Dickinson said.

Knowing she was onto something special, Ms Dickinson asked the young women to collaborate with her on mNemosyne’s next edition of their popular magazine, Muse.

“I offered them an opportunity for a collaboration to create a series of black and white imagery that was both personal and meaningful that could be published in Muse, an ideal platform to launch their work sensitively,” she said.

The addition of Jemma, Mikayla and Shakira to mNemosyne’s creative team was a huge coup for the feminist collective.

Secretary and co-founder of mNemosyne, Noeleen Lumby said the perspectives the three teenagers bring to their photography is refreshing and unique. 

“It has been a wonderful experience for our group members to spend time and collaborate with these amazing young women,” Ms Lumby said.

“The powerful images captured in the photographic session are complemented by the poetry and short stories submitted by local women, some regular and new contributors to our Flash Fiction Friday. Each Muse edition seems to surpass the previous one.”

Established in 2017, mNemosyne has published the works of many South Coast women both through its quarterly magazine and via its online blog and Flash Fiction Friday initiative.

“I am most proud of the work we have done to support women in their creativity,” managing editor Jodie Stewart said.

“Publishing your work can be a tough gig, and it can be even harder for rural and remote women.

“We are extremely proud of this edition which represents the coming together of local wordsmiths and photographers; at the same time showcasing an inspiring mentorship of young women who have been encouraged to explore their creativity through learning a new discipline,” Ms Stewart said.

With the release of the third edition of Muse, mNemosyne is continuing in its efforts to champion and celebrate the creative endeavours of South Coast women of all ages.

The launch starts at 10.30am with morning tea provided. Limited edition copies of Muse will be available for purchase on the day.