On the surface, there is the attraction of their sensual curves and textures, but it is the deeper layers that hold my interest; the empty space within that molds to a phantom tree limb, the engraved cellular pathways, channels for life-sustaining waters, the time-lapse of the strivings of a whole season, collapsed into a single curling page.
Alex's professional career as a digital 3D artist has been very technical and exacting, fostering an appreciation for it’s opposite: the more organic elements of traditional art, and the artist’s hand visible in a stray brushstroke. Alex likes to think the Treeshells have all these elements, a natural brushstroke left floating in space, painted by a mysterious hand.
The Treeshells are fully 3-dimensional segments of bark that are naturally shed by the Eucalyptus trees of coastal California. Each mounting is created to enhance the unique characteristics of the piece, allowing the full figure to float elevated above its ground. Dimensions vary from wall sizes up to 6 feet tall.