Liminal Terrain
My most recent Liminal Terrain project explores the convergence of fluid art, perception, and imagined scale, where macroscopic worlds unfold as vast, inhabitable landscapes. Through the integration of small human figures, the images evoke exploration, curiosity, and the human impulse to navigate the unknown.
Cellular structures resemble oceans, caves, and shifting terrains, blurring distinctions between the organic, geological, and cosmic.My work reflects on the interconnectedness of all systems, where inner and outer worlds mirror one another.
Transforming pigment into immersive environments, these series reveal new dimensions and invite contemplation of scale, presence, and perception. The viewer is positioned within a liminal space—between science and imagination—where familiar activities become acts of discovery within a living, evolving universe.
About the Head on photo festival Open Program:
The Open Program highlights a diverse range of independent, artist-run exhibitions. Each year, the festival receives many high-quality proposals from passionate artists and collectives. While the Featured exhibition program has limited spots,the Open Program honours the talent and dedication of photographers energising our arts community. These exhibitions are a vital part of the festival, reflecting the commitment, artistic visions and collaborative spirit of contemporary photography. This year, a record number of Open Program exhibitors are presenting exhibitions across the country, extending photography throughout Australia. Head On is proud to offer a platform for artists to share their work.
Dark Sun
Abyss
Different Worlds
Dune
Crimson Drift
Journey to Elsewhere
Luminous Dive
Edge of Elsewhere
Ice Age
Deep Blue
Blue Chamber
Fire and Ice
The Crossing
Sonja de Sterke BRISBANE/Australia. ARTIST STATEMENT
Liminal Terrain explores the convergence of fluid art, perception, and imagined scale, where macroscopic worlds unfold as vast, inhabitable landscapes. Through the integration of small human figures, the images evoke exploration, curiosity, and the human impulse to navigate the unknown. Cellular structures resemble oceans, caves, and shifting terrains, blurring distinctions between the organic, geological, and cosmic. My work reflects on the interconnectedness of all systems, where inner and outer worlds mirror one another. Transforming pigment into immersive environments, these series reveal new dimensions and invite contemplation of scale, presence, and perception. The viewer is positioned within a liminal space—between science and imagination—where familiar activities become acts of discovery within a living, evolving universe.
BIOGRAPHY
Sonja de Sterke is a Brisbane-based photographer. Originally from the Netherlands, she has lived and worked in Australia for many years.Alongside her commercial photographic career, she has developed a photographic art practice shaped by a longstanding curiosity about nature, pattern, scale and perception. Her work combines experimental photography and digital techniques, drawing inspiration from natural forms and processes.