For more than 170 years, the Royal Botanic Gardens Victoria has been a place of learning, reflection and connection for visitors from across Australia and beyond. It remains one of Melbourne’s most significant cultural landmarks, recognised not only for its peaceful landscapes but also for its vital contribution to conservation, horticulture and scientific research.
Our latest collaboration with the Royal Botanic Gardens Victoria draws on this legacy. At La La Land, we wanted to honour the Gardens in a way that felt authentic and reflected what the people of Melbourne love most about this iconic destination. La La Land artist, Laura Ramos, approached the project with careful attention to the native and introduced species that define the landscape. Her aim was to capture the quiet beauty of the Gardens through illustrations that reflect both its natural diversity and its significance as a public space.
Our process began with detailed site visits by our Creative Director, Elie Azzi, studying the textures, colours and shapes found throughout the grounds. He documented specific plants that hold strong connections to the Gardens. These references informed the visual language of the collection. The deep greens of the Fern Gully, the soft tones of early morning light across the ornamental lake and the structured forms of mature trees shaped the palette and patterns that appear in the final artworks.
Back in our studio, Laura began distilling her favourite moments from the Gardens — and found herself especially captivated by the black iron gates that frame its many entrances. She chose to weave these gates into the collection as a signature motif, drawn to the way their sweeping curves and delicate detailing hint at stories layered across time. Their presence brings a quiet sense of history and craftsmanship into each piece, acting as a bridge between the cultivated beauty of the Gardens and the artistry behind their design. This inspiration shaped her linework, shading and composition, giving the collection a gentle rhythm that mirrors the elegance and intention found throughout the landscape.
Working with the Royal Botanic Gardens Victoria gave our team access to historical notes and plant references that helped shape the educational value of the collaboration. The project offered an opportunity to share the botanical stories that sit behind the Gardens. It also allowed us to spotlight the role the Gardens continue to play in the preservation of rare and threatened species. By weaving these elements into the artwork, we hope to encourage a deeper appreciation for the heritage of this remarkable place.
This collection is our tribute to a site that holds a special place in the cultural identity of Melbourne. It reflects our commitment to creating art that is grounded in Australian stories and shaped by the landscapes that inspire us. Through Laura’s illustrations, we aim to honour the Gardens as both a sanctuary within the city and an enduring symbol of the connection between people and nature.
