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David J Thomas

Lecturer

Contact

Bio

David Joel Thomas: Lecturer, Contemporary Practices; Instructor, Continuing Studies. BA Philosophy, 1995, DePaul University; MA Philosophy, 1998, DePaul University; MFA Interior Architecture, 2017, SAIC. Exhibitions: SciArt Center, New York Hall of Science; Drama Science Lab; Beverly Art Center; Fulton Street Collective; Morpho Gallery; Bridgeport Art Center; Hokin Gallery; Averill and Bernard Leviton Gallery; Connect Gallery. Residency: Mosnart Visiting Artist Project. Awards: Chicago Alliance of Visual Artists; Schiff Foundation Fellowship Award for Critical Writing in Architecture (Special Mention); Edes Fellowship for Emerging Artists (Nominee). Studio practice: digital art; critical and creative writing; object and architectural design.

Personal Statement

My interest and training in philosophy, art, and design reflects my commitment to bridging the gap between critical research and creative synthesis. My international experience – Lahore, Pakistan (1966-68), Ankara, Turkey (1968-72), and Kabul, Afghanistan (1972-77) – and my Middle Eastern heritage draw me to the crossroads of politics, art, and archaeology, to post-war reconstruction, autonomous modernization, global aesthetics, and the multiplicity and diversity of cultures. I have an active, multi-disciplinary practice in which I work as a visual artist with special focus on digital media, a critical and creative writer, and a designer at the object and architectural scales. I situate my studio practice on the edge of image and object making conventions. Through it, I interrogate dominant design sensibilities and the purchase they command on what counts as form. My work explores other commencements in the critical absence of alternative sensibilities and novel artistic commitments. It plots new perceptual possibilities, probable geometries, unforeseen practical realities, unimagined subjectivities, and dense material auras in which to become caught and reflectively absorbed.

Courses

Title Department Catalog Term

Description

Delve into the world of architecture, where creativity meets innovation. This course invites students to explore how architects transform concepts into captivating shapes, immersive spaces, and iconic buildings. Engage in a dynamic process that encourages experimentation with diverse forms and techniques, including foundational drawing, perspective, drafting, and advanced 3D modeling. During the course, you will tackle a variety of thought-provoking prompts and design challenges, utilizing materials such as chipboard, basswood, and foam core to bring your imaginative ideas to life in three-dimensional form. As a culmination of your journey, you will showcase your final projects, including compelling prints and drawings, tangible 3D models, or polished digital presentations. To enrich your understanding, you will also explore the influence of visionary artists, designers, and architects like Frank Gehry and Robert Irwin, examining how their work shapes digital and atmospheric experiences in design. While prior experience is not required, a familiarity with computers will enhance your creative process. Join us in this collaborative environment where art and architecture intersect, igniting your passion for design in exciting new directions.

Class Number

1004

Credits

1

Description

In this course, you will learn about contemporary design, focusing on Architecture. Through collaborative work and one-on-one mentorship, students learn how architects develop design ideas, conduct research, draft and develop their projects, and present proposals. You will be introduced to using traditional materials and software such as Adobe, Rhino 3D, or others. You will learn about contemporary designers and build design skills from drawing, drafting, researching, and ideation. The course will include online demonstrations geared to your passions, time for self-directed work, and comprehensive faculty advising. You'll engage in discussions and critiques with a vibrant online community of other students from throughout the country and around the world, create portfolio-quality work, and receive comprehensive guidance on developing competitive applications for college admissions to art and design programs.

Class Number

1018

Credits

1