- Meet
Thomas Hammer
We speak with Thomas Hammer about his dual practice, how experimentation led to his materials, and why you don't paint emojis.
I'm inspired by the culture around me and the constant bombardment of visual stimuli - subway ads, graphic design, ever-changing fashion, architecture, an endless stream of pedestrians and cars, our decaying infrastructure. All of that finds its way into my work, jumbled up like in a dream and filtered through paint.
About the Artist
Los-Angeles, California-based Thomas Hammer (b. 1985) creates calligraphic ink and acrylic paintings with custom-made brushes and painting tools that offer a range of unique mark making possibilities. Inspired by the way photography can flatten vast space, Thomas’ paintings similarly capture a planar distillation reminiscent of dynamic skyscapes and landscapes or the uncovering of an archeological dig. The contrast between the density and dispersion of Thomas’ mark making brings a sense of movement that draws the viewer’s eye around the entirety of the painted surface.
Exhibited at the Affordable Art Fair, 2022
Artist in Residence, Fusion Art Gallery - Inaudita, 2018
Featured in Architectural Digest, 2016