Thomas Main - Artist Statement

Human nature and the human condition are the foundational elements of Thomas Main’s lens-based practice. These themes allow him to shape and mould them to reflect the complexities of vulnerability and ethical flaws—ranging from explorations of the male body to critiques of political ego. The human presence may appear either directly or in abstract form within the finished work, where a consistent thread of institutional critique underpins this aspect of his practice.

Main’s chosen media are photographic film and wet print processes, primarily in black and white, though colour film is employed when the project calls for it. Working in the darkroom with large-format film negatives allows him to produce highly detailed prints by hand. This enables a nuanced use of shadow and tonal separation to subtly reveal hidden elements that are often conceptually linked to the written source material.

The negatives are printed on fibre-based warm-tone paper, and in some cases, Main incorporates mark-making into the print process to further deepen the narrative or visual impact. When appropriate, projects are extended into the creation of handmade artist books.

Prior to graduating from the Glasgow School of Art with a BA(Hons) Fine Art Photography, Thomas Main was a freelance editorial photographer commissioned by the UK national press, magazines and corporate clients.

Awards

The Press Photographer's Year - First Prize: Royals [2006]

The Press Photographer's Year - Selected: Features [2009]

British Sports Journalism Awards: Sports News Picture Highly Commended 2008

Scottish Press Awards: Sports Photographer of the Year [2005, 2006 & 2010]

Scottish Press Photography Awards: Sports Photograph of the Year [2007]

All images and material contained in this website a subject to the Copyright, Designs & Patents Act 1988. Contact the photographer in the first instance requesting information on reproducing these photographs.