Artist based in New Orleans, Louisiana
Trenity Thomas, Portrait of the Photographer
Tell us about yourself, what's your background?
Growing up watching my mom crafting and painting ignited my view on art. Not only my mom being a primary impact, my creative peers also contributed to my overall appreciation of art. While working at the Ogden Museum of Southern Art constantly surrounded by beautiful paintings, photos, and sculptures as a teen docent and also as a guard influenced me as an artist. Realizing that I can create something that I enjoy without anyone's control really came to my attention of being an true artist.
On Foot, 2020
"Ideas mostly start just by being in the world. My mind is constantly thinking of things I can create in time. When watching movies, I tend to want to tell my own stories through photography."
Behind the scenes
What are you currently working on and where did the inspiration for it come from?
I'm currently working on paintings with red cowboy hats as the main subject. What inspired it are photos I captured myself of my friends wearing cowboy hats. The one that stands out the most is my friend wearing a red cowboy hat.
Thoughts, 2021, Photograph (Model: Carl)
Behind the Scenes
Innovation does not only happen in the field of technology — it occurs everyday in an artist's practice. What do you do for inspiration?
For my inspiration, I watch movies, I love good cinematography. Also spending quality time with my friends who are also artists.
Cowboy Stance, 2020
Where do ideas start for you? In the studio or being in the world?
Ideas mostly start just by being in the world. My mind is constantly thinking of things I can create in time. When watching movies, I tend to want to tell my own stories through photography.
Behind the scenes
How do you make your work, does it start with a sketch? Can you tell us about your style? How did you arrive at it?
Sometimes when I'm just sitting, an idea will come to my mind. I'll head to my notes to lists props, locations, models and also sketch out a particular shot I would like to capture on my camera. My style came from growing up in New Orleans, from living in the south everything feels warm to me and I like to incorporate that into my photos.
Many artists live by their creative routines, do you have your own studio ritual? What does that look like for you?
My studio is my bedroom, sitting pretzel-style with my laptop in front of me. While doing so, I'll have a movie on or have music playing, I love alternative and indie rock music.
Purple Heart, 2020 - Model: Daisha
Who are your biggest influences?
During High School, my art teacher was a big influence. Italian filmmaker, Luca Guadagnino is another influence for me, his films are so unique and raw with visual storytelling.
Behind the scenes
What books or films are an important source of inspiration?
Some films that inspire me are Suspiria (2018), Moonlight, and No Country for Old Men.
How will Innovate Grant contribute to your practice?
Innovate Grant will contribute to my practice by helping me get props for photoshoots and prepare for exhibits.
Cowboy Sitting, 2021, Photograph (Model: Eric)
What’s the best piece of advice you’ve been given?
Work until you don't have to introduce yourself.
What is the best advice you would give to other artists?
Put 100% into your focus, every choice and thing you do is unique.
Behind the Scenes
View Trenity Thomas Portfolio
Stay up to date with Trenity Thomas
Instagram @504degrees
www.504degrees.com