LEVEL 2, GALLERY 18
ISRAEL, BORN 1971
LIVES AND WORKS IN MELBOURNE
PROJECT
A contemporary luminaire emitting coloured light, Ora light: interactive eclipse 2008 (designed) 2020 (manufactured) is displayed as part of a broad range of projects relating to ideas of illumination. Presented in the company of NGV’s Collection of early twentieth century design, the work draws associations with the development of psychological inquiry and the growing awareness of environmental factors on human emotions and behaviour. A large black disc, the automated light work moves through the visible light spectrum – which appears in a halo effect – emitting coloured ambient light in a durational display over three minutes. An enduring topic of research and study, the effect of light spectra and its potential to evoke positive psychological, autonomic responses in people is a preoccupation for designer Ilan El.
ABOUT
Architect and industrial designer Ilan El was born in Tel Aviv, Israel and moved to Australia in 2005. He specialises in the design and bespoke production of lighting products and installations. Interested in the experiential quality of light and its potential for delivering positive psychological and emotional effects, El explores the colours in the visible light spectrum to develop works with playful, interactive and automated elements.
El established his atelier ILANEL in 2010. His installations and work have been presented at Melbourne Design Week (2020 and 2018); Globelight, Melbourne (2016 – 2013); and Vivid, Sydney (2012). El’s large-scale commissions include 39 Steps for the Justin House Museum, Melbourne (2019). His work is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Victoria, Melbourne.