By Miriam Raftery

July 13, 2019 (Julian) – A visit to artist and architectural designer James Hubbell’s property atop a hill overlooking the Volcan Mountain Preserve in Julian, California is an entry into a whimsical world, where buildings appear to have sprouted from the landscape, complementing curves and rugged forms in nature, punctuated by colorful stained glass, murals and more.

Every year on Father’s Day, the Ilan Lael Foundation opens up the property to the public for a tour of the property, where James and his wife, Anne, still reside.  I had the pleasure of taking the tour this year.

Iconic San Diego artist James Hubbell to open property to the public, raise funds for Ilan-Lael Foundation and reveal near-completed Ilan-Lael Center

Photo: new Ilan-Lael Center in construction

May 22, 2016 (San Diego) - Renowned San Diego artist and humanitarian, James Hubbell, is opening his hand-built, artistic mountain retreat home to the public for the annual Father’s Day Tour benefiting the Ilan-Lael Foundation Sunday, June 19, 2016 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. in Julian, Calif. For more than 50 years, the Hubbells have been building their art-inspired home and guests are invited to tour the iconic property’s eight main structures, including the art studios, the famous “Boys’ House,” and chapel, plus the first-ever chance to explore the near-completed Ilan-Lael Center. James, his wife Anne, and their family will also be greeting the public to share their inspirational stories and insights about the property.

Tour to unveil the first brand new building on Hubbell Hill in 10 years

May 26, 2014 (Julian)--Iconic San Diego artist, global humanitarian and cultural leader, James Hubbell, will once again invite the public to tour his family’s magical and historically-designated compound in Julian, Calif. for the annual Father’s Day Open House on Sunday, June 15, 2014. The tour will also unveil the brand new ninth building on the compound – the Ilan-Lael Foundation building, which has been under construction since early 2013. The archive and gallery spaces of the new building will be open for the first time ever, which will showcase some of Hubbell’s most recent work.