H.R. Giger, the Swiss surrealist painter, sculptor and set designer was reported died this Monday. Giger, 74, was reported been admitted after being seriously injured as a result of falling from the stairs of his Zurick home.

He was a proud member of the team who won the Academy Award for Best Achievement for Visual Effects for their design work on the film Alien in 1980. He was named to the “Science Fiction and Fantasy Hall of Fame” in 2013. Giger described his style as “biomechanical” and was known for creating strange dreamscapes.

Alien Director Sir Ridley Scottpaid tribute to him saying “I am very saddened to hear of Giger's passing. He was a real artist and great eccentric, a true original.”

In 1998, he opened his own museum in Gruyeres, Switzerland, which is dedicated to his work, as well as pieces from his own art collection, including works by Salvador Dali and Dada.

He is survived by his wife, Carmen Maria Scheifele Giger, who runs the museum. A statement from Giger's family said: "We are absolutely heartbroken over the loss of this loving husband, selfless friend and supremely talented artist.”