Chris McKeown

Chris is an avid astrophotographer who spends long nights on Wellington’s South Coast and beyond, seeking stars and stillness. By day, he works as a consultant and leadership mentor, grounded in meditation and a belief in compassionate leadership.

“A pilgrimage into awe" gathers photographs made during his personal journey of healing, reconnection, and finding compassion for himself and others. Looking up at the night sky offered him a way to rediscover awe and a connection with something greater than himself. These images are markers of that journey; toward presence, expanded perspective, and wonder.

The exhibition builds on his recent Te Papa talk, which explored the neuroscience of looking up, attention, leadership, and how moving toward awe can foster compassion. It will be accompanied by a series of talks and potentially an astrophotography workshop for those seeking stillness and wonder through the art of photographing the night sky.

Talks about his photography and the neuroscience of awe will take place:
Sat 13 Sep – 11am and 2pm + Sun 14 Sep at 2pm

Framed and unframed prints will be available to view and buy, with a contribution from profits going to Our Lady's Home of Compassion.