Crown Readings, 2019
One-on-one performance, no booking required 11am-4pm

I like crowns heaps

I like crowns most

I like tiny holes

Millions of holes

Millions of holes in your head

There are tiny squares…

With my magic eye.

Thom Roberts has long been fascinated by crowns – that point at the back of the head where hair tends to grow in a spiral. At Studio A, a supported studio for neurodiverse artists where Thom makes most of his work, he will often reach out to touch the heads of fellow artists and staff members, perhaps peering in close to find a creature of one sort or other. His crown readings are a beautiful blessing – a way of touching base, or taking measure – and have become a part of the fabric of the studio.

The crown reading is also a staple in Thom’s performance art repertoire, as audiences are invited to enter Thom’s world for a moment or two.

Take a seat and let Thom decipher the strands and spirals at the edge of your skull, at the edge of your mind. What will he discover? What will you discover in the process?

Thom Robetrts

Thom Roberts’ painting practice is one part of his varied oeuvre: a keen collaborator Thom has also worked in performance, video animation, installation, and design. Thom is a skilled draftsman, able to quickly translate landscapes and portraits in a traditional and representational style. Yet, Thom’s primary interest is in his installation practice.

Thom works closely with Studio A, Sydney, to partner with organisations such as Erth Visual & Physical theatre, Sydney, One Another design and Mud Australia, as well as working collaboratively with artist Harriet Body as Thom and Angelmouse.

Most recently Thom was one of 70 artists chosen for The National: New Australian Art 2019 at Carriageworks, Eveleigh. For this exhibition Thom created a series of 16 paintings titled Thom Roberts Counts Trains.