On the Coast – Over 55 Issue 34 I March/February 2020 | Page 11

From tragedy to
R
ay Collins has had a lifelong love
affair with the ocean. And a tragic
accident in 2007 gave Ray the
opportunity to transform that passion
into a vocation.
While working in an underground
coal mine, Ray was involved in a terrible
accident that severely injured his knee
and left him unable to walk for several
months. During his rehabilitation, Ray
bought a camera and spent hundreds of
hours learning to take photos.
As you can see from his photos,
Ray learned well, and he has become
a very successful ocean photographer.
His photos of wave formations – from
above and below the water – are truly
captivating. He has collaborated with
major brands like National Geographic,
Vogue, Apple and Nikon.
triumph
“The Ocean has been the
one single constant in my
life”, Ray explains. “At any
time, during any emotion
– it is there for me. My
aim is to show the ocean
as a living, breathing
thing – to document it
in all of its intimidating
strength and to bring
awareness to its delicate
fragility.”
A collection of Ray
Collins’ extraordinary
photographs will be on
display exclusively at
the Ken Duncan
Gallery, Erina Heights,
from April 18 to May 10.
Entry to the exhibition is free. During his
exhibition, Ray will
present some inspiring
talks call Found at Sea.
Ray’s story is captivating
– and he tells it with
openness and sincerity.
Through injury, failure,
self-reflection and success,
Ray’s fundamental life
lessons have all been
Found at Sea.
Interestingly, Ray
is colour blind. But he
doesn’t see that as a hindrance. “I think
it helps by removing the “distraction” of
colour, allowing me to focus on contrast,
tones, textures, and composition. If I’d
always seen the same way as everyone else,
maybe my work wouldn’t be as unique.”
It is fitting for Ray’s work to be shown
here on the Central Coast, where we
have a great affinity with the ocean. We
are well known for our breathtaking
beaches and many Coasties enjoy surfing.
What better way to celebrate the ocean
than through Ray Collins’ inspiring
photography?
MARCH/APRIL – ISSUE 34
11