Sraw art is an ancient and endangered art form which originated in Kerala, a small town in southern India, some two centuries ago. It is intricate and time consuming, involving the selection of small pieces of straw, from the dried leaves of the rice plant, and painstakingly placing and affixing them to create a highly detailed three-dimensional image. It utilizes no pigment or color, just the natural hues of the straw.

Rajan (Ray) has been practicing this form of leaf art for decades, intent on celebrating, preserving and introducing the art and craft for future generations. The materials are all carefully and individually hand-gathered accordingly to ancient practices and criteria by the artist from a rice field in Alvin, Texas.

Many of his exquisite works venerate Galveston and its rich architectural and maritime history; They will be of interest not only to art lovers, but to history, architecture, and maritime buffs. His works range from small postcard-sized images to large wall works.

All artworks are available for purchase.

Ten Thousand Eyes is an open artists studio and gallery. A non-profit (501(c)3) entity with two artists-in-residence, its mission is to serve as a community hub for creative practice and expression of all kinds.