How do you describe what you do?

I draw cartoons, run workshops and art classes, install other people's art in galleries. I play bass guitar, follow the town (Ipswich FC), cook adequately, occasionally put on gigs and events and sometimes screen print stuff.

How did you start in art / design?

I drew pictures as a child - a lot of them were pictures of football matches and tour de france stages. They were drawn at my grandparents dining room table with my brother I seem to remember.

What makes your work and/or process unique?

Well, they say there is no such thing as a new idea, but I suppose all my work is done by me so that makes it unique in a way.

What would your top tips be for anyone considering taking up art/design?

Keep a sketchbook on you at all times to jot down ideas and draw pictures of things you see. This way you have a good selection of source material to draw upon. It's also a bit like keeping a diary which I suppose is a useful thing to do.

When you have the dreaded creative block, where do you get your ideas and inspiration from?

A walk or a bike ride usually helps. - also the sketch book tip I mentioned earlier means you have stuff to look back on if you feel short of ideas.

What piece of work or project are you most proud of?

I once put on a wrestling event in a 4ft square wrestling ring.

What other artist or maker do you admire and why?

I am a fan of Kurt Vonnegut, and recently installed work by Erica Akerlund which I thought was really good. I like people that seem to think about stuff quite deeply but with a sense of humour.

Any books on your shelf or exhibitions and events coming up you can recommend?

Dingus Khan, Colchester Arts Centre, 29th of April 2023

Why is Colchester Makerspace important to you/or and your work?

The facilities and a sense of self worth.

Tom’s work will be on display and available to buy for the month of April at Patch in front of the Makerspace at Trinity Works.