In the technicolor world of Yinka Ilori, everything the artist makes is an ode to joy. Born in London to Nigerian parents, his work blends both cultures, inspired by the patterns of West African textiles and the playful, postmodern graphics found in London’s urban fabric – vivid creations that radiate optimism.
At Milan Design Week, Ilori debuted a collaboration with Veuve Clicquot entitled 'Chasing the Sun,' with limited-edition champagne buckets shaped like a calabash, and a bottle-shaped carrying case knitted with upcycled materials using advanced 3D technology, all blazing in the brand’s signature golden yellow.
Seated in the sunny garden at the brand's installation in Milan’s Mediateca Santa Teresa, Ilori opened up about some of the travel experiences that shaped him.
What destination first changed you as a person?
My parents have always told me stories about growing up in Nigeria, and when I first traveled there as a kid, it finally made sense to me what made them the way they are. I fell in love with the community and the energy that I got from the people there – some of them who had so little, and joy is the biggest thing they have and have to offer. It’s fed my work with ideas of chasing joy and community, of celebrating each other. I’d say my mission is nurturing and harvesting joy – using those seeds of joy that were given to me by my parents to plant them in my work and in my practice.
I started traveling on my own to Nigeria, after I’d always gone with my parents. It allowed me to explore the country in a different way, and do things that, as worried parents, they might not recommend. I’ve managed to see some different places in Nigeria, found some great beaches, and even visited a few amazing textile weavers.
What was the first hotel that left an impression on you?
The W Hotel in Barcelona was the first hotel that wowed me. My room had floor-to-ceiling windows with a panoramic view of the beach, so just by pressing a button to open the window, you could be in bed but have the sea just beyond the tips of your toes.
When did you last experience a first-class flight?
I flew first-class on Korean Air and it blew me away. It had the best service and the best seats, and I even remember the rice they served with this great spicy sauce. I was flying to Seoul and fell in love with the city. I really believe the experience of travel begins with how you get to your destination, so it was an excellent way to arrive.
What place first shaped your idea of luxury?
In Morocco, I had my first memorable experience of real luxury when I stayed at the Four Seasons. The small things are important for me, and they were lovely there – a nice bathtub and shower, a great gym and sauna facility that were designed for guests who actually use them, like me. My morning routine includes a workout and a steam bath, and I like to keep that up on the road.
What is one experience that you would like to relive?
I wish I could repeat the experience I had in Sri Lanka a couple of years ago. I went on a safari there in an area with elephants, which I’d never seen in their natural habitat. These huge animals came right towards our 4x4 – a bit scary, but unforgettable.
See also: Marie-Louise Sciò on Hotels, Travel Memories, and Her Non-Negotiable Check-Out Ritual
If you had to visit one last place, where would you go?
One ultimate dream journey I hope to do someday is Rio. I want to ride around on a moped, go to carnival, dance, party, wear a costume – all of it. The people of Brazil give me so much joy. I have yet to meet a Brazilian who isn't happy. It's just a joyous place I need to visit.
What was your last trip?
My last trip was very iconic. I gave a TED talk in Vancouver – my first ever. I’m in love with Vancouver – you have the mountains and the sea, and there are whales you can see if you do the tours, plus I stayed at the Fairmont hotel on the waterfront, which has great views.
When were you last amazed by a meal?
Just last night, I was blown away by a meal – one dish in particular. I’d never eaten pasta with my hands before, but they served plin wrapped in a cloth napkin, these little ravioli of meat, vegetables, and cheese, that you just pick up and eat with your fingers. The restaurant was called Trattoria Masuelli – a very traditional place. I always seek out local restaurants when I travel, rather than the gourmet spots. Masuelli is run by the fourth generation of the family that opened it, and they’ve been passing on these incredible recipes over all that time – and that’s transgenerational joy right there.
