Artist as prophet: Aleister Crowley catalogue raisonné
UWA Profiles and Research Repository (University of Western Australia) January 5, 2026 DOI: 10.26182/smh3-vt75 via OpenAlex
Summary
AI-generated from the abstractAleister Crowley (1875-1947), better known as an occultist, was also a visual artist. A catalogue raisonné of all his known works was completed. The accompanying thesis traces his artistic development and the link between his magical practice and art-making. Newly discovered works and archival research document his evolution from early training through his most productive period. Crowley blended modernist techniques—especially post-impressionist colour theory and automatic drawing—with western esoteric traditions to produce a distinctive visionary art.
Study at a glance
| Characteristics | Theoretical or philosophical paper Peer reviewed |
|---|---|
| Population | The visual art of Aleister Crowley (1875-1947) |
| Keywords | Photography Research data Visual culture Museology Art history |
| Key finding | Crowley integrated modernist techniques with western esoteric traditions to create a unique form of visionary art. |
Abstract
The objective of this research project was the completion of a catalogue raisonné of all known works created by the artist, Aleister Crowley (1875-1947). The accompanying thesis examines Crowley's development as a visual artist and the relationship between his magical practice and artistic creation. Through analysis of newly discovered works and extensive archival research, this study documents Crowley's artistic evolution from his early formation through to his most productive period. The research demonstrates how Crowley integrated modernist techniques, particularly post-impressionist colour theory and automatic drawing, with western esoteric traditions to create a unique form of visionary art.