Jade Gillett of Rainbow Studios, Sydney. Photograph courtesy of Rainbow Studios. Rainbow Studios in Darlinghurst is not your typical art showroom; it’s the vision of co-founders (and partners) Jade Gillett and Brent Gold who, after relocating to Sydney from London, set out to create an accessible space where emerging Australian artists could find an audience. “We wanted a place where people can truly connect over art,” says Gillett. Since opening in September 2021, the gallery has become a haven for those seeking contemporary works, blending a laid-back Sydney vibe with bold artistry.
For Gillett, selecting art isn’t just about what’s trendy; it’s about finding pieces that feel personal and lasting. “Start with something that resonates emotionally,” she advises. “Look at how a piece feels in relation to your space and how it complements your existing style.”
In the lead up to Rainbow Studios’ 2025 expansion to a two-level showroom, T Australia sat down with Gillett to get her guide to buying art, design trends and the Australian artists on her radar.
What inspired you to pursue art professionally, and to open a boutique art showroom during such uncertain times?
Our inspiration to showcase art came from a long-standing love of design, creativity and the talent of emerging artists that we personally loved and followed over the years. Even amid uncertain times, we felt there was a need for a space where art could be accessible, meaningful, and celebrated with the support from our online platform and hosting events – a creative showroom felt like the perfect way to bring this vision to life and share it with our growing community.
How does your multifaceted perspective (moving from London to Sydney) influence your work, and how does the Sydney art scene compare to London’s?
Relocating from London to Sydney has opened up career opportunities I may not have found in London. Starting a business here feels more attainable, and small businesses can thrive by building a supportive community eager to see them succeed. The Sydney art scene has a vibrant, fresh energy that’s uniquely exciting. Here in Darlinghurst, we’re surrounded by art and creativity, with a strong appetite for new experiences and emerging talent. Having been in Sydney for seven years now, with only occasional visits back to London, it’s hard to compare directly, but from following London-based artists, I see that both cities are offering great opportunities for recent art school graduates. In Australia, there’s a strong emphasis on artists viewing themselves not just as creators but as brands, which has led to incredible achievements and growth as they navigate the art world with this mindset.
What tips would you give homeowners on picking the right artwork to complement their existing decor? How do you balance size, colour, and style?
For homeowners, I recommend starting with pieces that truly resonate on a personal level, then considering the scale, colour, and style in relation to the room. Large works can anchor a space and become a focal point, especially in neutral settings, while smaller pieces work beautifully as part of a gallery wall or paired together. Colour should both complement and enhance the room’s palette, creating a harmonious flow without overwhelming. Finding this balance between size, colour, and style will make the art feel integrated and intentional. At Rainbow Studios we always want to offer fun, colourful and interesting artworks that you might not usually see, from what we have discovered over the years is that we are introducing a really accessible variety of art for anyone to enjoy and style in their home or workspace.
Now for the renters—what advice do you have for art acquisition when your home feels transient?
For renters, versatile art pieces are ideal as they can easily transition between spaces and styles. Look for meaningful works that don’t require a significant investment – smaller pieces grouped together can make a big impact, and art that’s easy to mount or frame can adapt to new environments. Temporary framing, ledges, or easels also let you enjoy art without a long-term commitment to a specific spot. Even though many Sydney apartments are on the smaller side, we still see clients opting for larger pieces, viewing them as valuable investments that also serve as striking focal points. We love seeing how clients style their pieces, and with our local delivery and installation services, we often get the rewarding chance to see the artwork in place.
What contemporary art trends do you see emerging in 2025, and how can people incorporate these into their personal spaces?
In 2025, we’re seeing a lot of texture, sustainability, and storytelling in art. Artists are delving into layered materials, organic shapes, and narrative elements that infuse interiors with warmth and character. People can embrace these trends by choosing pieces that tell a story or incorporate sustainable, tactile materials—such as canvas prints with natural fibres or sculptures made from reclaimed materials—to bring depth and personality to their spaces. At Rainbow Studios, we’re excited to explore this diverse trend landscape through upcoming partnerships aimed at educating and inspiring our customers to integrate these concepts in their own homes.
For those looking to invest in art, what should they be on the lookout for? Are there any key factors that distinguish a good investment piece?
For art investments, seek pieces that hold emotional, as well as market, value. It’s essential to look at the artist’s career trajectory, the medium’s durability, and whether the work is part of a limited series or one-of-a-kind. Emerging artists can often provide valuable investment opportunities if their work has been well-received. Ultimately, a good investment piece combines aesthetic value with the potential to appreciate over time, but it should also be something that speaks to the collector personally. We have recently just had a near-sell-out show with Australian artist Reif Myers, and we see his art being great collectable pieces. His works are iconic landscapes with many fun, nostalgic features and characters, which will continue to increase in value over the years as he grows into a more established artist.
Who are some of the Australian artists we should be watching right now and what makes their work stand out?
Many Australian artists are producing exceptional work right now. Among them is Jordy Hewitt, a Perth-based artist who recently held her debut solo exhibition with us. Known for her distinctive technique with oil pastels and thick textures, Jordy’s work captures ethereal, dreamy emotions through her large and medium-sized pieces, making each one a striking statement in any home or space. Another artist to watch is Dan Kyle, whose paintings of Australian landscapes evoke a sense of otherworldly beauty. His work resonates because it feels deeply authentic, sparking conversations about culture, nature, and society and pushing creative boundaries in meaningful ways.
How do you curate exhibitions at Rainbow Studios? Is there a through line that connects the artists and creators you choose to showcase?
Curating exhibitions at Rainbow Studios is about finding artists ready to take a significant leap in their careers. We carefully select creators who share our dedication to crafting a successful, collaborative exhibition experience. Our commitment to authenticity, brand narrative, and meaningful support is at the heart of what we offer. We seek artists whose work tells a unique story or embodies a thoughtful perspective, aligning with our vision of fostering cultural connections and community. This approach creates a cohesive, engaging experience for our growing audience, both across Australia and internationally. Our goal is to inspire and excite, partnering with emerging artists who make art accessible and impactful.
What is on the calendar for the rest of 2024 and early 2025 – what can we look forward to at Rainbow Studios?
We’re closing out the year on a high note with an array of creative events happening in the showroom, plus collaborations with several brands that will showcase a variety of artists we’ve worked with throughout the year. As we gear up for the holiday season, we’re offering custom jewellery services and promoting our art stockroom, filled with pieces that make perfect gifts and help us prepare for our 2025 exhibitions.
Our biggest news to share is that we’re expanding Rainbow Studios to Level 2 – a project that’s been in the works for some time! Soon, our showroom will span two levels, creating an even larger space for exhibitions and events.
This interview has been edited and condensed.
