Thomas Wells (he/they) is an independent artist and curator based between the UK and Ireland. Thomas' work centres on socially engaged practice often involving LGBTQIA+ history and experience.
Documentary, events and performance are often employed to explore themes of domestic ritual and hospitality.
ARTIST BIO
Recent projects include ‘A Queer Dander’ (2025 The MAC, Belfast) a film project on the history of Belfast Pride with filmmaker and artist Niamh McCann, and ‘It’s Turned Out Nice Again’ (Outburst Queer Arts Festival 2024) an installation and performance series on the theme of biography and nostalgia. Other past projects include 'Never Getting Much Use Out of a Chair' (2023 The MAC Belfast part of 'mother tongue') 'Travelling the Road' a public art commission by PS2, and Chronicles a community development project with LGBTQIA+ community in east Belfast.
Chips, 2021, Thomas Wells, 20cm (8”), Digital printed and fired coupe bone china plate
Installation shot of Never Getting Much Use Out of a Chair Thomas wells, (2023 The MAC Belfast part of 'mother tongue')
Thomas is a member of Array Collective who in 2021 won the Turner Prize with their work ‘The Druthaib’s Ball’ marking the centenary of the partition of Ireland. Array Collective employ tactics of humour and craic to create collaborative actions in response to the sociopolitical issues affecting Northern Ireland.
It’s Turned Out Nice Again 2024, Thomas Wells, (Outburst Queer Arts Festival 2024)
In 2018 Thomas launched SAM'S EDEN, a new queer arts publication and platform for artists, writers and activists with a shared interest in queer history and community. SAM'S EDEN two is available to purchase through The MAC shop and at CCA Derry/Londonderry.
Chips with everything, 2022, Thomas Wells, installation, Digital prints on china plate, Print on fabric, dimensions variable.
Chips with everything, 2022, Thomas Wells, installation, Digital prints on china plate, Print on fabric, dimensions variable.
