Artist statement
Lex Thomas’s obsessively detailed paintings and works on paper suggest an atmosphere of ‘Futuristic Nostalgia’. Located simultaneously between Romanticism and Science Fiction Thomas’ work describes unstable worlds that fuse past, present and future. They are meditations on the human condition and explore the fictions man has created in order to deal with his existential predicament.
Thomas’ paintings are richly layered with shiny glazes that suspend the imagery within the aspic-like surface. Playing with simulacra and authenticity Thomas’ work is an exploration into the unreliability of reality. An investigation into the construction of the image, while also alluding to its own fabrication, is portrayed with collaging or handmade pixilation and mis-registration.
The lost paradise that is captured is both disquieting and fantastical; a disturbing anthropomorphism permeates and while the landscape suggests toxicity it also hints at an ancient past. Thomas explores a retro-futuristic collision of science and nature through fragmented narratives that reference the uncertainties of our present age.
Current and forthcoming events
- April - June 2013: Of Truth of Clouds, South Hill Park Arts Centre, Bracknell (more info)
- May - June 2013: Wider than a postcard, Breeze Block Gallery, Portland (more info)
Qualifications and training
- 2007 Postgraduate Diploma in Fine Art, Chelsea College of Art and Design, London
- 1998 Certificate in Higher Education Fine Art, University of the West of England, Bristol
- 1995 National Diploma in Foundation Studies Art & Design, University of the West of England, Bristol
- 1994 BA Hons Social Science, Greenwich University, London
Solo exhibitions
- 2013 Of Truth of Clouds, South Hill Park Arts Centre, Berkshire
- 2011 Lex Thomas: Future Proof, Opus Fine Art, Milburn House, Dean Street, Newcastle. NE1 1NR
Group exhibitions
- 2012 National Open Art Competition, Prince's Foundation Gallery, London
- 2012 160th Open Exhibition, Royal West of England Academy, Bristol
- 2012 Space//Form, Breeze Block Gallery, Portland, USA
- 2012 Westworld, Xero, Kline & Coma, London
- 2012 Young Masters, Rupert Cavendish Fine Art, London
- 2012 Woolgather Art Prize (Third Place), Cross York St, Leeds
- 2012 Lynn Painter-Stainers Prize, Mall Galleries, London
- 2012 Rising Stars Prize, New Ashgate Gallery, Farnham
- 2012 At Home With The Ludskis, Rio Cinema, London
- 2011 Young Masters @ Sphinx, Sphinx Gallery, London
- 2011 11:11, East Gallery, London
- 2011 Heartlands, Downstairs Gallery, Great Brampton House, Hereford
- 2010 Making It / Faking It, Orleans House Gallery, London
Personal website
