Diwali - The Light Within

The Light Within is an immersive inflatable art landscape by French–Australian queer artist Matthew Aberline with the Beautiful and Useful Studio.

Created by Aberline together with long-time studio collaborators Christina Chan and Vik Sajnani, the work reflects the studio’s collaborative spirit and the richness of Chinese and Indian perspectives.

First staged in Singapore with the Urban Redevelopment Authority and iLight Festival, it now lights up South Eveleigh for Diwali — celebrating the beauty of nature with a stunning, colourful garden that transports adults into a world of wonder. Hidden throughout are smaller sculptural creatures, offering young visitors the joy of discovery as they explore. By day, the works are boldly colourful and patterned, by night they become enormous glowing lanterns. 

The installation draws on approximately 20 original artworks by Aberline, transformed into a vivid landscape that audiences can journey through. Each element is designed, printed, and hand-sewn in the studio’s solar-powered Sydney workshop, using recycled polyester to ensure the work can be restaged and celebrated for many years to come. The Light Within is not only an artwork but a positive force — using creativity to inspire joy, social connection, and environmental sustainability.