SSA ESSAY PROJECT | THOMAS HAWSON
For our final essay of 2025, we are pleased to publish ‘Making, Creativity & Workmanship’ by SSA Council Member, Thomas Hawson.
From his self-converted mill farm studios in the rural Scottish Borders, Thomas has been developing his art practice, since 1997. He works in wood, bronze, ceramics, drawing and film photography. Thomas has a fascination for basic preindustrial technology and ways of making things from materials hewn directly from nature. By working until he feels a fluid mastery of his medium, he lays the foundations for his art. Completing his PhD in 2006 for his Icelandic project, collaborating with artists and makers across the Nordic region, has grounded his art practice in making traditions. Commissions have come from Marchmont House, the Icelandic Parliament, the Foreign& Commonwealth Office and the Episcopalian Cathedral Glasgow. His work has been exhibited across the Nordic region and nationally and received awards at the Royal Scottish Academy. Doctor Hawson has been a visiting lecturer at Glasgow School of Art, Brunel University and Heriot-Watt University.
Read Thomas’ essay at the link below:
The SSA essay programme intends to highlight the creative thinking of our members and to provide a platform for expressing and sharing our opinions on Art, Life and the World.
SSA Members are invited to submit essays for consideration by the SSA Essay Steering Group. This Group will look for essays containing original ideas and pertinent comments on the arts and beyond. You might, for example, like to write about your own art practice, the work of other artists you are familiar with, shows you have seen, or your musings on creative and cultural life.
Further information on the essay project can be found HERE>>