Kimberly Thomas is a biracial interdisciplinary sculptor and flameworker currently residing in Denver, Colorado. She is known for her work’s intentionally flawed and unusual motifs as well as her intricate sculptural inventions. A self-taught glass artist, Thomas earned a BFA in Ceramics from the Rhode Island School of Design and spent six years as a special effects make-up artist before she began flameworking in 2009.
Thomas’s work is often autobiographical and conveys her unique perception of the world. Drawing her influence from concepts, questions, and theories about human nature, she combines realism and fantasy. She imparts her truth into dark, yet entertaining, narratives. Recurring themes in her work include the undesirable facets of life and human nature, freedom from the corruption imposed by society, and expansion of self-knowledge. Thomas challenges viewers to face what makes them uncomfortable in order to invite opportunities for fresh perspectives and personal development.
Using intuition as a guide,Thomas’s creative process is a balancing act between experimentation and intention. She uses borosilicate glass as a core medium as well as steel, wood, and other mixed media to create her kinetic, sculptural inventions. Her attention to detail and regard for realism contribute to the intensity and sophistication of each piece.
Thomas is a prolific artist who is dedicated to her professional and creative growth. In addition to working in her studio in Denver, Thomas exhibits her work in museums and galleries across the United States. She is a former professor of glass at Salem Community College in New Jersey and a guest instructor at various craft schools and studios, including Penland School of Craft and Pilchuck Glass School. She was selected for Pilchuck’s 2021 Emerging Artists in Residence Program, and 2024 Penland School of Craft 3-year Artist Residency. Kimberly plans to continue to evolve and expand her body of work and her artistic vision.
