Amid the lush, subtropical environs of Brisbane, creativity and community thrive. Despite being somewhat hidden from the rest of Australia by the overhanging foliage, Deena Lynch has been growing and pollinating in the collaborative ecosystem of Brisbane.

The front-woman of solo project Jaguar Jonze, Lynch also manages locals acts with national footprints Confidence Man and Jungle Giants, while continuing her visual creative practice on the side as Spectator Jonze. It’s in this pursuit that Lynch explores aspects of mental health through art. Lynch is one of the few unrecognised keystone species in a local scene: those that may not be occupying the national spotlight, but are essential for a creative city to blossom.

In this shoot, Lynch has been joined by an all-woman, all Brissy team of talent. Despite not being recognised on the same level as southern capitals such as Sydney and Melbourne, the current crop of youngsters in the river city are making their own waves. Floral artist from up the coast Bloodwood Botanica have created the ethereal cacophony of untrammelled nature, while make-up artist Sarah Smith and hair stylist Annie McDonald brought the urban chaos to town. Garments came from local boutiques Wolfe and Ordnance and Molten, as well as Lynch’s own vintage finds.

Shot in a Brisbane backyard, Lynch is a rare species; one that brings light to others.