LAURA THOMAS
Artist
Escape to nostalgic environments in an expressive world of shape and colour.
I am a Melbourne based artist whose vibrant work focuses on still life compositions and explores my position as a consumerist. I am originally from the UK and studied fine art at University, writing my thesis on art and mass consumerism.
My work explores nostalgic scenes and social moments. The works exist to transport the viewer to uplifting and familiar environments through the use of expressive pattern, colour and still life compositions. Bold blocks of colour and collage define my practice with layers of paint and collage to add depth and texture. Flowers, animals, vessels, food and interiors are the subject throughout and the flatness/shape can often create multiple outcomes in what the viewer interprets from a work.
My work is predominantly paint on canvas using, acrylic, oil, oil stick and collage. I use techniques that allow me to create naive marks and use shape and pattern opposed to replicating what I see in a literal sense.
It has taken many years for me to define my niche in style (and continues to evolve) which is described as textured, colourful and an abstract take on what I see. I enjoy pushing the boundaries of conventional still life, creating ambiguity and taking inspiration from artists such as Matisse, Cézanne and Kandinsky. My paintings often celebrate everyday objects with their intense colour and examination of space and form.

Awards
Finalist/ Bluethumb Art Prize 2021
Rising Star Finalist /Fenton and Fenton 2020
Rising Star/ Bluethumb Top 10 Rising stars of 2021
Fine Art Degree (BA HONS) / Exeter - 2012
Exhibitions & Media
Burn Side gallery December 2022
Christmas Guide, Fenton & Fenton December 2022
Paired, Side Gallery July 2022
Opening Exhibition, Verandah Studio April 2022
Mother's Day Ex, Fenton & Fenton March 2022
F*CK Covid, Fenton & Fenton December 2021
Spring Show, Fenton & Fenton September 2021
IWD Exhibition, Who Gallery, March 2020
Back to Now, No Vacancy, June 2020
Feel Good, Fenton & Fenton August 2020
IDLEWILD, The Side Gallery, September 2020