Rothko, Richter, and a Return
The studio doors are open, the coffee is brewing, and the lights are officially back on at ILANEL.
I’ve spent the summer break tracing the path of light across the globe - a winter expedition that took me from Melbourne > Tel Aviv > Paris > London > Abu Dhabi.
There is nothing quite like travel to reset the studio’s "Curiosity Engine".
The Anchor – Israel: I had incredible times traveling across the country, dedicating my time to family, lifelong friends, and uni mates. This extended stay was anchored by two beautiful moments: the vibrant energy of Hanukkah, a reminder of how light serves as a universal symbol of celebration and resilience, and a personal milestone - celebrating my birthday surrounded by the people I love most.
The Visual Recharge – Paris: During my time away, I took a short winter trip to Europe to soak in the art scene. Paris turned on a show of its own, covered in a blanket of white snow. We visited the Fondation Louis Vuitton for the Gerhard Richter retrospective and Olafur Eliasson’s Inside the Horizon - a stunning interplay of light and yellow glass. This was paired with the Minimal exhibition at the Bourse de Commerce, which interacted beautifully with the architecture.
The Catalyst – London: Despite the cold, the galleries kept the fire lit and provided the ultimate creative fuel. A visit to the Tate Modern proved pivotal: the immersive colour fields of Mark Rothko have directly informed the new direction of my Luminism series. Conversely, seeing the magnificent work of Emily Kam Kngwarray was a grounding moment - a reminder of the Australian landscape that made me miss home.
The Finale – Abu Dhabi: On the way back home to Melbourne, the desert offered a stark, brilliant contrast to the European winter. From the immersive digital art at TeamLab and the cultural depth of the Zayed National Museum to the spiritual geometry of the Abrahamic Family House, it was the perfect end to the journey.
From the Tate to the Bayside
I’ve returned recharged, with a sketchbook full of new forms and a fresh perspective on how we can illuminate your spaces in 2026.
But while I was gathering inspiration abroad, a piece of our studio’s evolution has been making its own statement closer to home.
ORA 2.0 is currently on show at Bayside Gallery.
This piece represents a significant moment in our design language - a study in form and phenomenon that demands to be seen in person. If you haven't visited yet, you have just a few weeks left.
Where: Bayside Gallery, Corner Wilson and, Carpenter St, Brighton VIC
When: Running until Sunday, 1 March 2026 - Wednesday to Friday 11am - 5pm and Saturday and Sunday 1pm - 5pm
P.S. The gallery shares a beautiful precinct with the Brighton Library and the Bayside Council rose garden. I highly recommend making time to explore both while you are visiting ORA 2.0.
Let’s Make 2026 Luminous
The break was recharging and inspiring, but getting back to the bench feels even better. If you have a project for 2026 that needs a fresh, globally-inspired perspective, let's talk.
Warmly,
Ilan
