Sally James Thomas b.1973

Sally James Thomas was born in Cardiff in 1973 and graduated from Middlesex University in 1995 with a degree in Fine Art with Sociology.  After a period in London, she returned to her home in North Pembrokeshire where living, working and engaging with the coast continually influences her use of colour, texture and subject-matter.

Through a combination of techniques, Sally explores strength and presence – contrasted with concepts of the ephemeral and disintegration. Natural and synthetic shapes, forms and textures are integrated in her work and simulated by the exploration of materials. Her strong interest in geology is linked with the compression element necessary for printmaking.

The physical process of making is as important as the finished work – scratching, gouging, cracking, tearing, melting and pouring, reflecting the relentlessness of the elements. Isolation and fragmentation are often inferred, with found objects sometimes making their way into compositions. Sally also often uses printmaking techniques, not to produce multiples, but for the distinctive qualities that can be achieved.