Most people’s career paths tend to be a series of “zigs and zags” as opposed to a straight line and Alan Westby’s is no different. From early training as a sculptor, to designing exhibits for children’s museums to running a major aviation museum, Alan has always looked to new challenges.

As with many artists, Alan has always been fascinated by what makes things work. “Automata are a natural fit for me. I love the challenge of animating a whimsical scene, trying to figure out what mechanically has to go on below the deck to make everything go!”

Alan’s current work reflects an interest he has with early science fiction, specifically the robot and rocket imagery. While frightening when it was originally made, today it is viewed as nostalgic and humorous. “These automata are fun reflections of life, and how our perceptions change over time.”