Aliza Thomas, an artist based in the Netherlands but hailing from Israel, brings a unique blend of cultural influences to her work. Beyond her identity as an artist and papermaker, Thomas is also an art teacher, sharing her knowledge and passion with others. But her talents extend beyond the realm of visual art; she is also a teacher of Qigong and Taijiquan, embodying a holistic approach to creativity and well-being. Adding another layer to her identity, Thomas proudly describes herself as a mother of three children and three grandchildren, highlighting the multifaceted nature of her life and art.
Thomas’s work is a testament to her diverse experiences and interests. Her piece titled “Integrating your Shadow– self; embrace it, connect light and dark: A dance with the self” is a striking example of her artistic vision. Made from handmade kozo paper, the piece is a reflection of Thomas’s expertise in papermaking, a technique that is well-known in the eastern part of the world, particularly in China, Japan, and Thailand.
The use of gold cardboard adds a touch of elegance and depth to the piece, creating a visual contrast that is both captivating and thought-provoking. Thomas’s mastery of paper art is evident in her ability to combine traditional techniques with modern materials, resulting in a work that is both timeless and contemporary.
Thomas’s work is not limited to visual art; she is also a talented poet and songwriter. She often writes poems for her pieces, adding another layer of meaning and emotion to her work. However, she acknowledges that not everyone appreciates this aspect of her art, and she has learned to keep her poetry separate from her visual art. Nonetheless, her ability to express herself through multiple mediums is a testament to her creativity and versatility as an artist.
In addition to her artistic pursuits, Thomas is also a dedicated teacher. She has taught art and papermaking to students of all ages, sharing her knowledge and passion for creativity with others. Her approach to teaching is holistic, emphasizing the importance of physical and mental well-being in the creative process.
Overall, Aliza Thomas is a multifaceted artist whose work is a reflection of her diverse experiences and interests. From her expertise in papermaking to her talent for poetry and songwriting, Thomas’s work is a testament to her creativity and versatility. As a teacher, she is dedicated to sharing her knowledge and passion with others, embodying a holistic approach to creativity and well-being.
