My first body of definitive expression was innovative and futuristic wearable sculpture which I designed and constructed full-time from 1974-1982. These works reached their collectors via artful retail shops, galleries and commissions on both Coasts of the USA.
I was privileged to have work from this period chosen for a couple of major museum exhibitions.
With a move away from the urban environment, and beginning studies in the Healing Arts, my artwork evolved into mixed media wall reliefs. These were first created with techniques identical to those in my Art Couture work – but now hand sewn. This allowed me a more contemplative creation process, and a much more physically supple result. In fact, the first couple of works were also wearable ceremonial garments that expanded into hanging works with their own unique integrity.
Within the year I was creating these reliefs in various mixed media, often including textiles, and was encouraged by regular and enthusiastic commissions from interior designers and architects in Southern California.
All my work before 1990 was signed “CUCA”, a family nickname. Most of my Art Couture pieces were reversible, and unsigned.
After 1989 I focused most of my creative energy into training and facilitating in the Healing Arts: Breathwork, Reflexology, Flower Remedies and Reiki energy work. During this time I continued to draw, take photographs and make small artworks.
In 2000 I began a small business hand-dyeing silk scarves with a unique shibori animal skin pattern I developed. These, bearing the label Fibonacci, sold to specialty retailers as I traveled the Southwest.
Since 2004 I’ve again been creating work consistently: one-of-a-kind body adornment accessories, digitally manipulated original drawings, and direct digital painting. I’ve also discovered I have a small collection of compelling photographic images which I continue to expand.
I expect to settle into a new studio soon, where I will have the space and resources to make the things I’ve imagined for over twenty years, and for which the technology is now available. An internet venue for the purchase of reproductions of my work as greeting cards and postcards is also available at:
www.zazzle.com/AlienEyesArts*
I am always willing to consider commissions of work for you or your business, including wearable designs.
Just send me an email with any questions.
All images Copyright 1974-2008 R.A.L. West
alieneyesarts@gmail.com
AlienEyesArts.com
