A. Len Bell

Visual Art – Baltimore

Cultures have always been at the heart of my inspiration. I am the product of American Indian, Scottish, Irish, Scandinavian, African and Chinese lineages. Growing up on the Gulf Coast I was involved in traditional American Indian crafts and dances; as I grew older I gained interest in my Celtic roots and went on to major in Cross Cultural Communications in college. I began my art career illustrating Mardi Gras and American Indian dancers, and creating contemporary mask for Mardi Gras and traditional ceremonial masks for my tribe, selling my wares through a number of galleries in the Southeast and on the streets of New Orleans. I took off several years from showing my work, during which time I served in the US Navy, Marine Corps, and a law enforcement agency, before retiring and established our home based Loime Studios with my textile artist wife as a means of exploring joint artistic talents. Loime is a Gaeilge word denoting nakedness, being exposed in spirit, and openness. Illustrative works have included two children\'s books, ongoing illustrations for poet Anne Wimer, The Mermaid\'s Song series and several series \"As Gaeilge\" of traditional and modern Irish verse. I also carve contemporary gourd masks and boxes. Based in Baltimore, I hold a degree from University of Maryland University College in cross cultural communications and have continued to research more primitive aspects of art. Still, the sea remains the most constant focus and inspiration for my work.