Alien Artist H.R Giger Has Died Age 74

The legendary artist H.R Giger has passed away aged 74. The sad news was broken early this morning by the H.R Giger Museum in Switzerland who confirmed early reports by the Swiss press. Giger was best known for his iconic concept work for Ridley Scott's Alien movies, but his influence stretched far further and he is a man who will be sorely missed by many. The famed surrealist passed away on Monday after suffering a fall in Zurich, Switzerland.

In 1980, Giger won the Oscar for 'Best Achievement in Visual Effects' for his work on Scott's 1979 movie, Alien. However, if things had gone differently, Giger's first foray into the world of cinema would have come in Jodorowsky's adaptation of the Frank Herbert classic, Dune, a production which the artist had done a considerable amount of design work for. Nonetheless, Giger's unique vision saw his influence felt across a number of Hollywood movies during a career that spanned 4 decades. From concept work on the Batmobile in Batman Forever, to Scott's Alien sequel Prometheus, Giger's work influenced and inspired numerous filmmakers.

It wasn't just Hollywood that appreciated Giger's work, though. His unique surrealist approach graced the cover of numerous record covers and will be forever be an inspiration to everything from tattoo artists to graphic designers.

While Giger's work is revered by many, his style caused great controversy throughout the years. After his Penis Landscape work was used in as a poster insert in the Dead Kennedy's album, Frankenchrist, and saw lead singer Jello Biafra subjected to an Obscenity trial in 1986.

Undoubtedly the greatest monument to his work is the H.R. Giger Museum and Bar in Chateau Gruyere, Switzerland. The museusm is adorned with Giger's work and has become such a success that a group of investors are looking to replicate the model with Giger-inspired bars and hotels across America, although it is safe to say that these offshoots will find it hard to beat the stunning Castle location of the Swiss original.

Born Harold Rudolf, Giger is survived by his wife Carmen Maria who also serves as Director to the H.R Giger Museum.