A portable, automated illumination device is provided that is capable of illuminating an item stored on or near the device, such items may include eyeglasses, drinking cups, or other household articles. In one embodiment, the device includes a top section platform that has a sloped, nearly vertical edge to retain items and a sensor that instantly illuminates a light in response to motion adjacent to the device. In certain embodiments, the light provides illumination of the surrounding area to allow a user to find an item stored in or near the device, or to locate a more significant light source. Preferably, the light is illuminated for a certain period of time, after which the device resets to be triggered by subsequent motion, heat, or other stimuli detectable by the sensor.