ABOUT

Colleen Gunderson is a central Wisconsin artist whose practice centers on photography, highlighting the natural world's interconnectedness and nuanced beauty. Her images suggest a delicate balance and celebrate the poetry found in everyday scenes.

Originally from Milwaukee, she developed a contemplative creative approach through a lifelong practice of following forest paths. During visits to Door County, Abe Cohn's pottery and studio instilled a formative appreciation of material and of artwork in organic dialogue with nature. Her sense of composition drew early inspiration from Robert Leland Pence's paintings, particularly his intentional use of space. Today, this heritage of craft and composition converges with an appreciation of Japanese aesthetic traditions and historical processes. She uses traditional Japanese washi paper as a printing medium, echoing the environment through rich, textured impressions with inherent strength, and is currently experimenting with cyanotype techniques.

Gunderson’s work has been exhibited throughout Wisconsin, including shows at the Miller Art Museum, the Museum of Wisconsin Art, and the Neville Public Museum. Dedicated to accessible art experiences, she regularly exhibits as a member of both the Coalition of Photographic Arts (CoPA) and Wisconsin Visual Artists (WVA), including supporting the art partnership between CoPA and Ronald McDonald House Charities Eastern Wisconsin. Beyond her regional impact, Gunderson participates in the biennial Awagami International Miniature Print Exhibition in Japan, joining the global printmaking community.