Events & Achievements | Ilana McBain | Australian Contemporary Artist
Events & Achievements
Throughout my career, I’ve been fortunate to share my work through exhibitions, public art projects, workshops, collaborations and community events across Australia.
As an artist, I believe creativity has the power to bring people together, inspire meaningful conversations and strengthen communities. Every exhibition, mural, workshop and speaking engagement has become part of that journey.
This page is a growing timeline of the milestones that have shaped my career—from gallery exhibitions and public art commissions to charitable collaborations, creative festivals and educational workshops.
Thank you to every collector, organisation, community group and individual who has supported my work. Each opportunity has contributed to the story that continues to unfold.
Public Art Projects
Officially unveiled by Noosa Mayor Frank Wilkie on Tuesday 22 July, the Community Courtyard Mural Project has created an inviting outdoor area designed for volunteers, Tourism Noosa members, visitors and the wider community to enjoy a quiet moment, share a cuppa or simply take time out.
The project has been developed with accessibility and wellbeing in mind, providing a calm and inclusive environment for everyone, including people living with hidden disabilities or those experiencing anxiety.
The mural also complements the recently established DV Safe Phone collection point at the centre, reinforcing its growing role as more than just a tourism hub. The initiative allows people to donate old mobile phones, which are professionally wiped, refurbished and distributed to victim-survivors of domestic and family violence through support services.
Tourism Noosa chief executive Sharon Raguse said the project reflected the centre’s evolution into an important community space.
“The Visitor Information Centre has long been a welcoming place for visitors, but it has also become an important community hub where people come to connect, seek guidance and access support,” Ms Raguse said.
“This courtyard has been thoughtfully created as a shared space that encourages connection, inclusion and wellbeing. It reflects the welcoming spirit of Noosa and provides somewhere people can pause, recharge and feel comfortable.
“Alongside initiatives such as the DV Safe Phone collection point, the mural reinforces our commitment to creating a place that supports both visitors and our local community.”
Mayor Wilkie said the mural celebrated the community’s connection to Noosa’s natural beauty while strengthening the visitor centre’s role within the region.
“The transformation of this space invites quiet reflection, connection and a reminder of how incredibly beautiful Noosa is,” he said.
“This project shows what can happen when local creativity, volunteer effort and community care unite to strengthen and celebrate our connection to this place.”
He said the addition of the DV Safe Phone collection point further demonstrated how the centre had become a place of inclusion and care.
“The Visitor Information Centre continues to evolve as not just a gateway for visitors, but a place where people feel supported and part of the Noosa community,” Mayor Wilkie said.
“Together, the new mural and the DV Safe Phone initiative demonstrate how the Visitor Information Centre is becoming a place of connection, inclusion and care for both our community and our visitors.”
The mural was designed by local artist Ilana McBain, whose artwork already features throughout the visitor centre. Ms McBain donated her time and creative talents to the project, while Noosaville family business The Paint Place donated the paint.
Inspired by themes of belonging, community pride and connection, the artwork depicts two of Noosa’s most recognisable natural landmarks – Little Cove Beach and Noosa National Park.
“Some places have a way of reminding us how fortunate we are,” Ms McBain said.
“They represent more than beautiful destinations; they are symbols of nature’s quiet power, beauty and generosity.
“Through this artwork, I wanted to celebrate that feeling of gratitude we experience when we slow down, breathe deeply and reconnect with the world around us. It is a tribute to the extraordinary place we call home and a reminder to cherish and protect it for future generations.”
The mural was brought to life with the help of Tourism Noosa volunteers, staff, members and community representatives, creating a colourful symbol of the shared values that continue to make Noosa a welcoming destination for both residents and visitors.
Ilana McBain with Sunshine Coast Mayor Rosanna Natoli, Fiona Simpson MP and Lee Campbell QF06 unveiling the Australian Volunteer Coast Guard 50th Anniversary mural celebrating 50 years of service.
It is a genuine honour to be part of this special celebration and to have been invited to create this mural commemorating 50 years of Coastguard Mooloolaba
Today was not just about a painting. It is about recognising the thousands of volunteer hours, acts of courage, dedication, and community spirit that have helped keep people safe on our waters for half a century.
As an artist, I believe the best public art tells a story.
This mural is a tribute to the volunteers-past and present-who quietly serve our community with commitment, professionalism, and heart.
It represents not only the history of Marine Rescue Mooloolaba but also the values that continue to guide it: service, teamwork, resilience, and care for others.
I would like to sincerely thank Marine Rescue Queensland, the committee, volunteers, supporters, and everyone involved in making this project possible. special thank you to my friend Clive Surridge for introducing me to you and Thank you for trusting me with the responsibility of helping tell your story.
I am incredibly proud to have contributed a small part to this remarkable milestone, and I hope this mural serves as a lasting reminder of the extraordinary people behind this organisation.
May this mural stand as a reminder that behind every rescue vessel is a community of people who choose to help others, often without recognition, simply because it is the right thing to do
Congratulations on 50 years of service, and thank you for everything you do for our community.
Publications & Media Features
Featured on the cover of In Noosa Magazine Summer 2025, this vibrant artwork by Australian contemporary artist Ilana McBain celebrates modern pop art, creativity and the colourful spirit of the Sunshine Coast. The feature highlights Ilana’s transition to full-time artist and her passion for creating bold, meaningful artwork that inspires connection and conversation.
Collaborations
The Story Behind the DV Safe Phone Artwork “Call To Freedom”
This artwork was created through conversations between Ashton Wood and myself as we imagined what could best represent the mission of DV Safe Phone.
From the beginning, I wanted the artwork to express hope, freedom and renewed strength the journey many victims begin when they receive a safe phone. A phone is much more than a device; it is a lifeline. It reconnects people to family, support services and the opportunity to rebuild their lives.
The bird launching from the open hands symbolises that moment of release. It represents the courage to move forward, the return of hope, and the freedom to begin again. Surrounding the bird are the tiny components taken from donated mobile phones, reminding us that every donated phone, no matter how small or outdated it may seem, becomes part of something much bigger. Each piece contributes to another person’s chance for safety.
The hands were modelled by my daughter, which carries special meaning for me. It is a reminder that domestic violence can affect anyone, regardless of age, background or circumstance. It also represents the collective support of our community. Protecting those experiencing domestic violence is not the responsibility of one person or one organisation, it is something we can all contribute to.
The artwork is intentionally simple, using a bold black silhouette contrasted with the subtle colours of the recycled phone components. Every artwork is unique because the arrangement and colours of the phone parts naturally differ from piece to piece. In the same way, every survivor’s story is unique, yet each deserves hope, dignity and the opportunity to heal.
It has been a privilege to contribute to DV Safe Phone’s incredible work. I hope this artwork serves as a reminder that when a community comes together with compassion and purpose, even the smallest contribution can help someone find the strength to take flight.
Make a Difference with DV Safe Phone