Sustaining James Hubbell’s Legacy Through the Visiting Artist Program

A short visit to the home and studio of James Hubbell reveals the true nature of this historic site; amidst the rhythmic strike of metal, the roar of the forge, and the sharp whine of the table saw, it is unmistakably a living art space. For four consecutive years the Ilan-Lael Foundation has invited San Diego regional artists to experience the energy of this mountain home and studio with one invitation– to create art inspired by this place.

At its core, the Visiting Artist Program thrives on a shared devotion to nature and the distinct artistic character of this region. Each artist describes their unique relationship with nature, an essential trait that draws artists to participate in the program, and the way many of the artists describe feeling akin to James Hubbell.

The program’s unique offering is evident in the artists’ own words. Mixed-media artist Aline Mare depicts Ilan-Lael as “a place where architecture is grown from land rather than imposed upon it, and where creative labor is understood as a reciprocal exchange with the environment.” After Vira Ustianska’s first visit to Ilan-Lael she shared that “ [Ilan-Lael] gave me hope that despite the turbulence and uncertainty in the world, people can still rediscover themselves through a connection with nature.”

When we speak of the Foundation’s mission to uphold James Hubbell’s legacy, what does that truly look like? One vital method is welcoming artists and enthusiasts to encounter the enchantment of “Hubbell hill” firsthand. In doing so, we collectively envision the path forward for Ilan-Lael, with the Visiting Artist Program serving as one vessel for capturing and distributing that inspiration. Visiting artist fellow Helen Shafer Garcia articulates her objective as creating “compositions that blend flora, fauna, and architecture,” ultimately encouraging visitors to recognize the critical need for preserving San Diego’s distinctive gem, Ilan-Lael.

Now entering my second year serving as the Visiting Artist Liaison, I have come to realize that the true essence of this program—beyond the enchanting, natural landscape and Hubbell’s iconic art and architecture—is rooted in human connection. James Hubbell fostered a vibrant collective of craftsmen and artists who join their efforts to live his creative philosophy, to seek beauty. Today this enduring legacy continues to inspire generations to seek beauty as a catalyst for connection and change.

This philosophy is best demonstrated by those who carry it forward. After graduating from the Pomegranate Process under the tutelage of Milenko Matanović, one of James Hubbell’s close friends and contemporaries, Vicki Leon, characterizes her understanding of art “as a force for connection and transformation”.

These artists who are drawn to this special place share the same fundamental desire to find meaning and connection through their craft. One could describe the unique pull as kismet. As visiting artist Willy Nicholas reflects, “The kind, lasting, and reciprocal community that James Hubbell built is something I’m committed to helping sustain.”

It is our esteemed honor to host these thoughtful, talented and creative artists to Ilan-Lael. It is truly magical to see what they might create and we invite our Hubbell community to follow along in this journey. We hope the program continues to grow with increased participation and creativity.  We look forward to debuting  artworks created by our 2026 Visiting Artist Fellows. Please join us in welcoming our new friends and celebrating their endeavors. 

The 2026 Visiting Artist Program is a collective of seven artists: Helen Shafter Garcia, Rose Irelan, Vicki Leon, Aline Mare, Willy Nicholas, Vira Ustianska, and Marshall Williams. A group exhibition will be on exhibition at the Athenaeum Music & Arts Library in La Jolla January 16 – April 3rd 2027. Opening Reception and Panel Discussion held on January 15th. The 2026 Visiting Artist Program offers year-round hands-on workshops held at the Ilan-Lael Foundation. 

Story written by Visiting Artist Liaison Rhi Burmeister, Photography by Archivist Laurel Costa

Hero Image: From left to right: Vira Ustianska, Vasy Ustianska, Aline Mare, Gary Brewer, Willy Nicholas, Marshall Williams, Helen Shafer Garcia, Vicki Leon, and Rose Irelan