My essentials: Glenn Ellul’s cultural picks

About  

I’m a designer and visual artist based in Malta. My professional work is rooted in design and creative projects. Alongside this, I’ve developed my own artistic practice, focusing on intricate pen-and-ink drawings of imagined architectural spaces. I’ve exhibited my work in Malta through solo exhibitions and collaborative projects. www.glennellul.com

Online Story

One story that really caught my attention recently was about the possible discovery of what some researchers believe could be Noah’s Ark.

Researchers have uncovered what appears to be the remains of a large structure buried underground, which they are now investigating further. Nothing has been confirmed yet, but I’ve always enjoyed reading about discoveries from the past.

Film 

La Migliore Offerta (The Best Offer), directed by Giuseppe Tornatore. I had watched it before, but recently rewatched it and appreciated it even more. I love the strange, almost dreamlike atmosphere, particularly the interiors, architecture and art that surround the story.

The main character’s relationship with art and collecting really interested me and I was completely drawn into the story. It’s mysterious and psychological, with a feeling throughout that something isn’t quite what it seems.

Internet and TV 

I used to spend more time watching TV, but these days I find myself choosing podcasts more often, especially when I’m drawing. I spend quite a lot of time drawing, and podcasts make good company while I work, particularly when I’m focused on a piece for a few hours. Jay Shetty’s podcast is probably the one I listen to most. I enjoy the variety of conversations and people he brings on. Locally, I also listen to Jon Mallia’s podcast, especially his conversations about people’s careers and experiences.

Music 

I enjoy a diverse range of music, from classical to pop and rock, and often choose what to listen to depending on my mood or what I’m doing.

One album I’ve particularly enjoyed is My 21st Century Symphony (Live at the Royal Albert Hall) by RAYE and The Heritage Orchestra. I’ve always been drawn to her music, particularly the way she writes and expresses herself through lyrics. Hearing her songs reworked for a full orchestra made me appreciate them in a completely different way, especially the way the arrangements reshape the songs.

Place

India is the place that has stayed with me the most. I remember being overwhelmed by how much there was to take in, the colours, sounds, food, spirituality and the energy of everyday life.

Varanasi really stayed with me. Walking along the steps beside the Ganges River and seeing life unfold around it, from the morning rituals to the evening ceremonies, felt completely different from anything I had experienced before. There was so much to take in that I feel I only scratched the surface, and I’d like to go back.