Degree: Painting & Printmaking
University: The Glasgow School of Art
Graduation Year: 2023
Drawing is where it all starts for Natasha Thomas, developing a creative jumping-off point to explore ideas and develop compelling works across a range of mediums. The intricate yet fluid inks in 'River Kelvin' and 'Skirt' provide a fascinating insight into the artist's process, which culminates in larger, sculptural pieces. The beautiful curved marble effect in 'Serif' and the finely wrought pattern of interlocking circles in 'Clay Puzzle' may seem to be a part of traditional ceramic decorating techniques, but looking closely, the 'function' of these vessels becomes more and more uncertain. This reaches a climax in the enormous 'Waterworks', a hulking sculpture resembling a well, covered in intricate ceramics and made with steel, plaster, wax and gravel. Inviting a deeper consideration of these objects beyond their status as 'vessels' is part of Natasha's artistic project: one that pushes for deeper looking, new ways of engaging with work, creating 'mythical worlds that deconstruct presupposed ways of looking apparent in the Western Cannon'. Each of Natasha's pieces, then, is more than the piece itself - formed from an immersion in research and the written word, a product of the sedimentation of years of history and dense association, that offers up new connections, and a new vision.
The joy and relief of the making process motivates me. My methods reflect curiosity and an excitement for life. Through working creatively we hope to communicate better and realise new ways of living that are beneficial to the world. We are able to break down epistemologies and tensions through imagination. Using the motions of painting as a starting point for three dimensional sculptures, I hope to make mythical worlds that deconstruct the presupposed ways of looking apparent in the Western Canon. I aim to work against the prejudices that permeate my own lifestyle and British culture. With this belief in mind, my research method surrounds making playful connections with found materials & written information. Drawing is always a prerequisite to everything I make. My printmaking & painting practice is influenced by history, collecting then collaging visual inspiration from different epochs.
(2022) Richard Ford Award
(2023) New Blood Art Award
(2024) Dumfries House. Etching Residency
(2024) Edinburgh Printmakers. Lithography Residency