About Draumir

The Norwegian band Draumir is Alexandra Bråten (vocals) and Jo Frøytlog (vocals/instruments). Draumir is releasing their third album in 2024, and the single Beautiful Creatures was released on February 25th.

In Beautiful Creatures, the listener is invited into a timeless sonic universe with noise, swarms of mandolins, drum machines and shimmering electric guitars. Beautiful Creatures was recorded in several versions, but the version that was eventually preferred stays close to the original demo recording. Vocalist Alexandra elaborates:

«We’ve often talked about how something quite special often happens very early in a recording process, and how this special quality slips away from us as the work progresses. This time, we were very conscious of avoiding just that. Many of the elements that make up Beautiful Creatures were done very quickly, without necessarily the intention of them staying all the way through.”

Beautiful Creatures is written and produced by Draumir and mixed by Phill Brown.

About the Music Video

We plumbed the depths of strange fairytales, splicing together fragmented scenes that blur the lines between reality and fantasy.

Is the ominous forest morphing into strange cathedrals? That fox and woman presiding over it all? Just tiny glimpses into the delirious dream realm we crafted frame-by-frame.

We relished layering unsettling details amid the lush beauty – you’ll spot sinister eyes peering from shadowy corners if you look closely enough.

From conjuring bioluminescent creatures to subtly warping the fabric of the world itself, it was alchemy of the highest order. Draumir’s shimmering soundscapes were our constant guide, allowing the visuals to organically mutate and flow like a lucid reverie.

I think we bottled strange magic with this one. The rare alchemy that occurs when exploring uncharted territory.

The first single is Beautiful Creatures was released on (2/25) and can be streamed now:

Mariusz Lewandowski (b. 1960 – 2022) was a Polish surrealist painter who was born in 1960 in Działdowo, Poland. He created his unique pieces using oil on canvas. His artwork delves into the depths of the human mind and explores the limits of the imagination.

Early Influences and Education

Lewandowski’s interest in art began at a young age, and he was influenced by the works of surrealist masters like Salvador Dali and René Magritte. He attended the Academy of Fine Arts in Gdańsk, where he studied under the renowned Polish artist Stefan Gierowski.

The Artistic Vision

Lewandowski’s artistic vision is a true reflection of his feelings and experiences. His paintings are a perfect blend of light, space, and contrast and are replete with symbols and thought-provoking details that encourage individual interpretations. Interestingly, while the artist provides titles for his pieces, he never offers any translations, allowing each viewer to form their own understanding.

Collaborations

The artist’s work has been widely recognized across borders. In 2017, he collaborated with the metal band Bell Witch and created a painting called “The Essence of Freedom,” which became the album cover. This was the beginning of a new phase in Lewandowski’s career, and he has since created over thirty album covers for record publishers like Sony Music Entertainment, 20 Buck Spin, and Transcending Obscurity Records.

Inspiration to Others

Moreover, Lewandowski’s artwork has inspired others as well. His unique style and subject matter captivated Jamie Thomas, the creator of the legendary Zero Skateboards brand, resulting in a collaboration between them in 2021. Together, they produced a limited series of five skateboards that quickly became popular among skateboard enthusiasts.

Continued Fascination and Inspiration

In conclusion, Mariusz Lewandowski’s distinctive artistic style and approach to painting have earned him a significant place in the world of surrealist art. His works continue to fascinate and inspire viewers globally.

Major Art Exhibitions

Lewandowski’s artwork has been featured in many major art exhibitions throughout Europe and North America. His solo exhibitions have included “Dreams and Visions” at the BWA Gallery in Olsztyn, Poland, and “The Surreal World of Mariusz Lewandowski” at the Modern Art Museum in Houston, Texas.

Artistic Style and Techniques

Lewandowski’s artistic style is characterized by his use of light, shadow, and contrast, and his paintings often feature complex and dreamlike imagery. He uses a variety of techniques to achieve his unique style, including glazing, layering, and impasto. His work is often categorized as surrealist, but he also draws inspiration from other artistic movements, including expressionism and symbolism.

Personal Life and Hobbies

In his free time, Lewandowski enjoys spending time with his family and exploring the natural beauty of the Warmia and Masury region. He is an avid reader and finds inspiration in literature, particularly the works of Polish writers like Witold Gombrowicz and Bruno Schulz. He is also a supporter of environmental causes and has donated his artwork to various environmental organizations.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Mariusz Lewandowski

Introduction to H.R. Giger

H.R. Giger, born Hans Ruedi Giger in 1940, was a Swiss painter, sculptor, and designer known for his distinctive, eerie, and surrealistic style. He gained worldwide recognition for his work on the science fiction film Alien, which earned him an Academy Award for Best Achievement in Visual Effects.

Early Life and Education

Giger was born in Chur, Switzerland, to a pharmacist father and a mother who encouraged his artistic endeavors. He studied architecture and industrial design at the School of Applied Arts in Zurich. Giger’s early influences included surrealist artists like Salvador Dalí and Jean Cocteau, as well as the works of H.P. Lovecraft and Edgar Allan Poe.

The Birth of Giger’s Signature Style

Giger’s unique style, dubbed “biomechanical,” is characterized by a fusion of organic and mechanical elements. His intricate, dark, and detailed artwork often featured human and alien figures intertwined with machinery. This style was heavily influenced by his recurring nightmares, which he used as inspiration for his otherworldly creations.

The Necronomicon and the Road to Alien

In 1977, Giger published his first collection of artwork, titled Necronomicon. This book caught the attention of filmmaker Ridley Scott, who was in the process of developing the now-iconic sci-fi film Alien. Giger’s work on the creature design and sets for the film catapulted him to international stardom.

The Xenomorph and Giger’s Influence on Science Fiction

The Xenomorph, the terrifying alien creature from the Alien franchise, is arguably Giger’s most famous creation. Its design has had a lasting impact on the science fiction genre, influencing countless films, video games, and other media. Giger’s biomechanical aesthetic has become synonymous with the darker, more sinister side of science fiction.

Giger’s Other Film Contributions

In addition to his work on Alien, Giger contributed his artistic talents to a variety of other film projects. Some of these include Poltergeist II: The Other Side, Species, and Alejandro Jodorowsky’s unproduced adaptation of Frank Herbert’s Dune.

Giger’s Art in Other Media

Giger’s influence extended beyond film, as he also designed album covers, furniture, and even a limited-edition motorcycle. His artwork has been featured in numerous exhibitions around the world, including the H.R. Giger Museum in Gruyères, Switzerland, which opened in 1998.

Album Covers and Collaborations with Musicians

Giger’s haunting visuals have graced the covers of albums by bands such as Emerson, Lake & Palmer, Celtic Frost, and Danzig. He also collaborated with musicians like Korn’s Jonathan Davis, designing a custom microphone stand that became an iconic symbol of the band.

Legacy and Impact

H.R. Giger passed away in 2014, leaving behind a vast body of work that continues to inspire and captivate audiences. His unique and imaginative approach to art and design has left an indelible mark on the worlds of science fiction and horror, cementing his status as a visionary artist and a true master of his craft.

Conclusion: A Lasting Legacy

H.R. Giger’s contributions to the art world and popular culture cannot be overstated. His influence is felt across various creative disciplines, from film and music to fashion and architecture. Giger’s haunting, otherworldly style and dedication to his craft have solidified his status as a titan of the art world.

Giger’s Art Books and Publications

In addition to his work in film and music, Giger was a prolific author and artist. He published several art books, including Necronomicon II, Biomechanics, and Passagen. These publications showcased Giger’s artistic evolution and further cemented his status as a leading figure in the world of surrealist art.

H.R. Giger Museum and Bar

The H.R. Giger Museum, located in Gruyères, Switzerland, is dedicated to preserving and showcasing the artist’s extensive body of work. The museum houses the largest collection of Giger’s art, including paintings, sculptures, and film memorabilia. Adjacent to the museum is the H.R. Giger Bar, a unique and immersive establishment that features Giger’s trademark biomechanical design aesthetic.

Giger’s Impact on Modern Art and Design

Giger’s unique visual language has left a lasting impact on modern art and design. His innovative approach to blending organic and mechanical elements has inspired countless artists and designers, pushing the boundaries of what is possible in the realms of surrealism, science fiction, and horror.

In Summary: A Tribute to H.R. Giger’s Genius

H.R. Giger was a visionary artist whose influence has left an indelible mark on the creative world. From his groundbreaking work on Alien to his extensive portfolio of paintings, sculptures, and other artistic endeavors, Giger’s legacy will continue to inspire and captivate audiences for generations to come.

Frequently Asked Questions

When did H.R. Giger pass away?

H.R. Giger passed away on May 12, 2014, at the age of 74. His vast body of work and unique approach to art and design continue to inspire and captivate audiences worldwide.

You will be captivated and transported into the supernatural world just behind the veil through Batsheva’s mysterious subject matter. Her illustrations with their intricate details and haunting juxtapositions are a dark visual treat that evokes strange enchantments both haunting and mesmerizing.

Guiding this magical experience is renowned paranormal investigator, Susan Slaughter. With over 15 years of experience, Slaughter has investigated paranormal activities in over 30 countries. Her lectures, Q&A sessions, and live drawing demonstrations at the “Skirting Spectres” exhibition will leave you enchanted, as she shares her experiences of investigating the paranormal and teaches us about the power of connection with the otherworldly.

Daniella Batsheva will be displaying a series of never before seen illustrations with accompanying stories covering supernatural occurrences in and around London. Susan Slaughter will be giving lectures on her experiences as a world renown paranormal investigator. The exhibition will showcase gorgeous, original artwork and interesting discussions that are appropriate for most age groups, discussing history, legends, and theories behind spirits and cryptids.

Batsheva reveals, “London has a rich, often gruesome, history and with that you’re going to hear a lot of murmurings about spirits. I’ve heard people speak casually about their personal accounts with faeries and ghosts, mostly about them being a nuisance, disturbing their daily routines, and I wanted to capture that in this collection of pieces.Rather than presenting these experiences in a way that would be terrifying, I wanted to provoke interest, and lend a human side to these otherworldly beings.”
Inspiration for most of Batsheva’s pieces are taken directly from real-life experiences of friends and colleagues, which is what inspired the title, “Skirting Spectres.” Her work is known for its playfully macabre subject matter, intricate details, and historical references, creating a visually alluring blend that appeals to mainstream and underground crowds.

Susan shares, “The paranormal realms are still largely misunderstood and feared. I’ve spent my whole career in the paranormal field trying to educate people on the power we have to connect with, communicate with, and transform these paranormal energies into our allies and teachers. Behind every ghost story is a lesson in the human experience and a lesson on how to live.”

Slaughter’s interest in the paranormal was sparked by her earliest memories and encounters with shadow people, orbs, and spirits from her early childhood. She knew that she had to find answers behind why she was experiencing  the supernatural and set out of a quest to find spirit guides and teachers. She started to investigate the paranormal professionally at 18 years old, and since then has investigated with teams all over the world in over 30 countries. From Mayan and Incan Temples, Carribean Fortresses, Medieval Castles, and World War sites and bunkers, Slaughter has navigated the supernatural occurrences with a culturally inclusive lens gaining great perspective on the different ways humans around the world perceive life and death and the human soul.

The exhibition will be open to the public from April 25-30, with lectures, Q&A and signings by Susan Slaughter, live drawing demonstrations with Daniella Batsheva, and time slots available for private viewings. Lectures will be held on Friday, April 28th, and Saturday, April 29th. Tickets for the lecture are for sale on Billetto for £22. Tickets will also be available at the door for £25.

Visual artist Daniella Batsheva is a self-proclaimed “Illustrator with a design habit” who has worked with a variety of brands and artists such as Kerrang!, Paris Jackson, Pizza Girl, and Dead Sky Publishing.

Susan Slaughter has worked with the paranormal for over 15 years and is best known for her work on Paranormal Caught on Camera, Ghost Hunters Int., and Ghost Hunters Academy. 

Event Page and Tickets: daniellabatsheva.com/skirtingspectres

“When I was growing up my family moved many times, and every new home held mysteries and secrets. I dreamed of hidden stairways that led to unknown attics, or cellars underneath that held forgotten treasures. I knew I could get there if I just kept looking. That low door is still elusive, but when I pick up my pencil or paint brush I can find it for a little while. When I paint I try to bring some of that magic country back with me.” – Kristin Kwan

Kristin Kwan Interview

What did you want to be when you were growing up?
A paleontologist.

What is the best piece of advice you have ever received?
Keep starting, that is the trick to productivity and progress. Don’t worry about anything else, just start, and start again, and start again, all day.

Who is the one person, dead or alive, that you would like to have dinner with and why?
Terence McKenna.

Where is your favorite place?
There’s this place that lives in my memory, from when I was a child, it was down the dirt road we lived on, in someone’s back 40, you went through a swampy place full of nettles, through blackberry brambles maybe 10 feet tall, and there was an old apple orchard, it felt enclosed from the world and timeless.

Who are your biggest influences?
Robert Bateman, 20th-century surrealists, mid-century sci-fi and fantasy cover artists

What can’t you live without?
Free time

What is your dream project?
Oh, it’s always the next thing, the next painting is always the dream project.

What’s your favorite artwork?
The Virgin of the Rocks, by DaVinci (the Louvre version), also the Rolin Madonna by Van Eyck

What is currently on your playlist?
Age of Adz by Sufjan Stevens, a lot of Joni Mitchell, endless Alan Watts youtube lectures

What are your last three Google searches?
I’ll never tell.

What gives you life?
Going for a run that hurts

What is your superpower?
Total obsession

What is your Kryptonite?
4:00 in the afternoon

If you could visit any artist’s studio, whose would you visit and why?
I would love to visit an old renaissance-type art studio, the workshop kind, and see the apprentices at work and the slow process of it all. What I really want to see is the Ghent Altarpiece in progress in the workshop, I’d stop in there.

What was the last thing you bought?
A book

What ideas are you currently pondering or questioning?
How to achieve some kind of work/life balance, how to let go of the endless desire for control

What do most people believe that you do not?
In free will

What is one thing you believe that most people do not?
Breakfast is totally unnecessary

What imaginary place would you love to visit?
Finn and Jake’s treehouse, the waterlily sea at the end of the ocean in Narnia, Green Gables

What is your favorite thing in the world, and why?
My family

If you could collaborate with anyone, who would it be, and why?
A musician for album art, but I don’t listen to enough music to know who

What’s next for you?
Leaping into that void of tomorrow, also a few group shows this year

GOLDEN AFTERNOON: A KRISTEN KWAN SOLO EXHIBITION

August 13, 2022 – August 28, 2022

Gallery Nucleus welcomes Kristin Kwan with her first solo exhibition at the gallery, featuring a collection of brand new personal artwork.

Opening Reception / Aug 13, 5:00PM – 8:00PM

Gallery Nucleus
210 East Main St
Alhambra, CA 91801

ARTIST STATEMENT

The main goal of my art is to find out who am I and explore the outside world.
Viewing through the lens of the creative process gives me the possibility
to shift the focus away from the vanity of common life and tap into stranger invisible world, the origin of the entire existence…

It was a long way started back in 1999 when I stepped on the streets with a spray can. During the next 18 years, I developed a fairy tale visual language, a visual storytelling with a transcendental ethereal form of contemporary muralism.

Inspired by the old master’s art I continue my evolution, I like to imitate the esthetic of antique book illustrations and old engravings in my murals, canvases, and drawings.

During the last 2 years, when street art became a mainstream, I decided to shift my focus on studio work, now contemporary and fine art scene looks more appropriate scene for my art.

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About Charles Wilkin

My work is a loose collection of thoughts and observations in many ways and less about one specific theme. I see it as being a reflection of the world we live in, with all its ugliness and cruelty. But from that, I strive to extract the beauty and empathy hidden underneath and within us all, revealing the unknown, the unspoken and intangible things that make us truly human. For me, collage as a medium replicates this frenetic and inherent collision of people, culture, and emotions we all experience. I believe the true meaning of my work is derived directly from the intertwining of these associations, and the spontaneity of my creative process. This gives my work the freedom to live creatively in the moment, and the ability to respond to current events, despite my imagery being derived primarily from vintage magazines.

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About Luke Gray

Hailing from Leicester, England, Luke Gray is a surrealist/symbolist illustrator and painter. Born color blind he was forced to use an almost exclusively black and white color palette, working with patterns and textures rather than color. After studying graphic design in London, he packed his bags and flew to Russia, then hitchhiked from Moscow to Thailand painting murals as he went. After four years of traveling, visiting over 50 countries, he settled in Southern China and built a studio from which he now works.

Influenced by multicultural art techniques he works in traditional mediums of Graphite and Ink often combining and integrating techniques and patterns from different countries and cultures into his work. His meticulously detailed works resonate with images culled from the metaphysical realm of sacred states and daydream.

By exploring the concept of the body-landscape through esoteric symbolism, he tries to appropriate a broad scale of subjects that work on both a micro and macro level. Throughout his work, he weaves themes of mysticism, esoteric symbolism, ancient mythology and hallucinogenic visions. ‘I believe art is a manifestation of the divine; we are merely alchemists receiving the information. Artists can see what most people only get a glimpse of’ An amateur ethnologist, when traveling he enjoys visiting indigenous tribes, living with them and learning from them; taking meticulous notes from their textile patterns, handicrafts, tattoo markings and sacred symbols.

Whether it’s sleeping with cannibal yogis in India, drinking psychedelic cactus juice in Peru, climbing active volcanoes in Indonesia, dodging missiles in Palestine, milking cows with nomads in Mongolia, learning bare blade wood carving in Bali or train hopping in the Alps he relishes the process of drawing inspiration from the world. When not in London or on the road, he currently lives in the village of Dali, southern China with his wife Yi and cat Mao.

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