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.
TITLE
Egg
ARTIST
Thomas Wells
ABOUT THE WORK
Three plates inspired by early designs for the installation Pass the Baby Under the Donkey, an installation of printed works inspired by a community led project CHIPS WITH EVERYTHING in Sailortown, Belfast. Supported by Household, Thomas engaged with a local arts and craft group in a series of workshops and developed a relationship using food as the catalyst. The installation was designed from the stories the group shared around domestic memories, family life and the changing face of the area.
DATE
2021
DIMENSIONS
20cm (8")
MEDIUM
Digital printed and fired coupe bone chine plate
ORIGINAL WORK / EDITION
Edition of 5, authenticated by the artist
ABOUT THE ARTIST
Thomas Wells is an artist based in Northern Ireland who is particularly interested in collective practice and exploring methodologies of collaboration. They create narratives and tell tales that explore identity, and family life. They love the dissolving of the truth into fiction as stories are retold which result in the creation of myths.
DELIVERY AND POSTAGE
Shipping cost will be quoted and confirmed via email. When your order has been placed we will be in touch with you to discuss the best options for shipping your purchase.
