Aliza Thomas is an artist and papermaker whose work is deeply rooted in the traditions of Asian papermaking and shamanic art. She is also a dedicated teacher of Qigong and Taiji Quan, disciplines that emphasize the harmony of mind, body, and spirit. Aliza’s art reflects her connection to these ancient practices, blending physical craft with spiritual insight.
Her latest piece, “On My Way to the Fifth Dimension,” is a 70x100cm collage made from handmade papers, with a small extension. The work is a visual exploration of change and transformation, themes that resonate deeply in a world often in flux. The title suggests a journey towards a higher state of being, a concept that has intrigued thinkers and dreamers for years.
In 2024, Aliza reflects on the notion of change, a theme that was highly anticipated in 2012 but seemed to fall short. Now, twelve years later, she sees a renewed potential for transformation. Her art invites viewers to contemplate whether this change will finally come to fruition, allowing the planet to remain a “beautiful place.” This idea of the fifth dimension is something that various groups speculate about, trying to visualize it, yet it remains a mystery. Aliza’s work doesn’t just depict a theory; it offers a sensory experience of this enigmatic dimension.
Can we truly visualize another dimension? Or is it something we can only dream about? Theories and explanations abound on the internet, but Aliza believes there’s more to life on Earth and in Space than these abstract concepts. To express her thoughts, she turns to poetry, a medium she often used to pair with her visual art. Although she found that combining the two was not always appreciated, she occasionally merges them to create a fuller expression of her ideas.
Her poem accompanying “On My Way to the Fifth Dimension” is a testament to her introspective and philosophical approach:
Roots, wings, feet, and bending shapes
Where is the key to growth? A shift in perspective? Crickets chirping answers Toes touch the universe Secret sounds Mirror wings A process of change returns to their steps Threads of life roots going up Trees sing with the wind A record of unselfing One’s self I sing A golden wing a veil silently lifted Discovering my toes Roots going down Water mirrors sky Roots with a Shiny Eye.
In this poem, Aliza explores themes of growth, transformation, and interconnectedness. The imagery of roots and wings, toes touching the universe, and trees singing with the wind evoke a sense of unity between the earthly and the ethereal. The poem suggests that true change requires a shift in perspective, a return to the essence of life and nature.
Aliza’s technique of collage, using handmade papers, adds a tactile dimension to her work. The physicality of the paper, crafted by her own hands, connects her deeply to the process of creation. This method aligns with her shamanic approach to art, where each piece is not just a visual object but a spiritual artifact imbued with intention and energy.
As a teacher of Qigong and Taiji Quan, Aliza brings a holistic perspective to her art. These disciplines emphasize balance, flow, and the cultivation of internal energy, all of which are evident in her artistic practice. Her work is a meditation in itself, inviting viewers to slow down, breathe, and engage with the deeper layers of reality.
In “On My Way to the Fifth Dimension,” Aliza doesn’t just depict a journey; she invites us to embark on it with her. The small extension of the collage could symbolize the extra effort required to reach beyond our current understanding, to step into the unknown with curiosity and courage.
The piece reflects Aliza’s belief that art is a process of unselfing, a way to transcend the ego and connect with something larger. Her work is a call to explore the threads of life, to listen to the secret sounds of the universe, and to discover the roots and wings within ourselves.
In a world that often feels chaotic and fragmented, Aliza’s art offers a moment of stillness and reflection. It reminds us that change is possible, not just as an abstract concept but as a tangible experience we can feel and see. Through her papermaking and her poetry, Aliza Thomas invites us to imagine, dream, and perhaps even step into the fifth dimension, where the boundaries of reality are expanded and the possibilities for growth and transformation are endless.
In conclusion, Aliza Thomas’s work is a beautiful blend of craft and spirituality, offering a unique perspective on change and transformation. Her art and poetry are not just expressions of her creativity but invitations to explore deeper dimensions of existence. As we navigate the complexities of the modern world, her work serves as a reminder that true change begins with a shift in perspective and a connection to the essence of life.
