Biography
Anna Thomas is a contemporary painter working in acrylic, oil and mixed media. Her paintings often reflect her love of the British landscape and have been described as vibrant and poetic, with a strong narrative element.
Anna has an MA Ceramics from Cardiff University and a First Class Honours Degree, Art with Psychology from University of Surrey. Her work is in private and public collections including the State Art Collection in Dublin, Ireland and the Buxton Museum and Art Gallery where she was awarded The Derbyshire Trophy. In 2019, Anna was elected into MAFA, Manchester Academy of Fine Arts. She exhibits both as a solo artist and as a part of group and touring exhibitions.
Statement
The starting point to Anna’s work usually comes from loose sketches and writing, enabling her to absorb the spirit of a place. ‘It is within these marks, smudges and words that memories and subconscious connections are laid down. In the studio, I work intuitively, never knowing how a painting will evolve. Trusting in the creative process allows for my imaginative memory to play, and through the layering and scratching of paint, a canvas comes to life. Animals, birds and other creatures often live in my paintings. They represent the life force within the landscapes and the history and the stories held within.’
‘I love studying the work of other artists, including Hieronymus Bosch, Pieter Bruegel, Marc Chagall, Mary Newcomb, Joan Eardley, Barbara Rae and many others who enrich and inspire me.’
‘The creative process feeds my soul. It is the way that I connect with my world and try to make sense of it.’
For more information visit Anna’s website https://www.annathomas.art or follow her on Instagram @annathomasartist
Email: anna@tomedi.com