Dimensions

Artwork by Kara Thomas

Dimensions represented a bold fusion of the tangible and the intangible, fine-art, tech, and unique perspective. Kara Thomas has been working with clay for the past 14 years, uniquely weaving technology into her process as she explores new ways to incorporate her illustrations and execute her visions. Dimensions was the product of the last five years of Kara's exciting work.

CultureVerse and Kara collaborated this past year to augment and amplify her work though the use of emerging technologies like 3D scanners, AR, VR, and immersive 3D environments. These elements were woven together into a custom virtual gallery (below) and Virtual Reality experience that provided new pathways to experience Kara's stunning work. Explore Kara's studio scan and virtual gallery for yourself and come away inspired.

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About the exhibit (in Kara's own words)

“Dimensions” speaks to my creative process and is a reference to the geometric terms two dimensional and three dimensional. When creating my artwork I start with a flat shape and visualize different ways that shape can be created as a 3D form. These shapes can range from a simple triangle to the complex hidden geometry of flowers. In my daily life I am constantly observing repeat patterns in architecture and nature which influence how I interpret these shapes into ceramic objects. I also use pattern and repetition to evoke a feeling of expansiveness that is reminiscent of looking up at the northern Michigan night sky as a little girl.

In my daily life I am constantly observing repeat patterns in architecture and nature which influence how I interpret these shapes into ceramic objects

The pieces in this show are a reference to the metaphysical. Practicing meditation has opened up my ability to see past the physical realm and tap into a deeper connection to things unseen. To me, the mind is a dimension of its own. Additionally, the work that I have created for this show is derived from spiritual experiences from my travels to Jordan, yoga teacher training, and hiking through the redwood trees in California. 

The pieces in this show are a reference to the metaphysical... ...to me the mind is a dimension of its own

Collaborating with CultureVerse has given me the opportunity to expand into the virtual dimension. The CultureVerse team has enabled me to create a virtual art world that is as far away from the traditional gallery setting as possible. With my artwork and the talents of CultureVerse we were able to create a cosmic interactive viewing experience. Whether it’s from a phone, or through VR goggles, this technology goes beyond a still photo and allows people to view a 3D digital version of my artwork that is as close as it gets to reality.

Kara's Studio:

Virtual Gallery:

Scans (viewable in AR):

Opening Reception at CultureVerse Gallery:

Collaboration with Leon Speakers:

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Wheel-throwing Demo feat. Felix Nichol

About Kara:

Artist and Twist out Cancer board member Kara Thomas has been working with clay for the past 14 years. Shortly after completing her undergraduate degree from College for Creative Studies in 2013, she began her career working as an automotive sculptor for General Motors. She is currently creating artwork in her pottery studio located in a refurbished bank in Northwest Detroit.

Inspiration for Kara’s work stems from historic alchemical imagery. Using the language and symbolism of alchemy to explore the world has allowed for her to discover meaning in nature. Drawing off a source that is beyond her own existence and what she considers to be cosmic, Kara's artwork is representative of visions and feelings that come to her during various forms of meditation. These visions then often take the form of functional ceramic objects, sculpture, and tessellating patterns.

Kara looks for parallels between nature transitions and human experience. The imagery on her highly embellished surfaces draws from these parallels. In her work, the evolving female figure can be seen alongside depictions of seasonal shifts and phases of the moon. Embracing change and feeling a universal wholeness, Kara’s work aspires to expand perspectives and uses worldly designs to create a sense of unity.

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