Inside the Studio
Thomas Gromas
What are the major themes you pursue in your work?
The theme I pursue in my work is everyday life. Our lives are being influenced by many things such as politics, TV, advertisement, work, etc. Because of this cascade of influences, we are not in control of our life. We are dreaming it. We follow a preprogrammed path. Because of that, we’re always missing out on something. There’s always something we’re wishing for. We’re always looking for more. There is always a better place, a better thing. These are the themes I pursue: the fake reality, the manipulated environment, the artificial life. The fairy tale series, for example, is based on this imaginary life, that fantastic world. The repetition of words and text is a way to emphasize the idea behind it. It reflects the need we have of always wanting more and never being satisfied. That is also why I like to use the word ‘more.’ The fairy tale quotes, “once upon a time,” and “happily ever after,” reflect how we (I) try so hard to live the life we dream of without really knowing where we go.
What was the best advice given to you as an artist?
I can’t think of any.
Prefer to work with music or in silence?
In silence, concentrated on what I am doing. I play music to relax when I am finished working.
If you could only have one piece of art in your life, what would it be?
There are so many. Maybe the statue of Kate Moss, Myth (2007) by Marc Quinn.
Who are your favorite writers?
I don’t know if I am the only one, but I never read books.
