Now in the Community Room, the art of John William Henry Wright Thomas is an impressive collection of photographs. While we all stay safe during this time of social distancing, Thomas has given the Library permission to share the following video and his story online.
The photos in the video, we admit, do not give his work justice. If you would like to contact the artist, you can do so at PO Box 241 Baltic Ohio, 43804, by phone at 330-897-7291, via email johnwhphoto@yahoo.com or online at johnthomasphoto.com.
John William Henry Wright Thomas was born in Union Hospital – Dover, Ohio to parents Henry D. P. Thomas and Edna E. Wright. He became interested in photography while still in gradeschool. In 1973, he met Chinese artist Sylvia Tsui, who introduced him to many aspects of life as an artist.
“I felt that photography allowed me to show reality of a moment in time much better than other media,” says Thomas. “Thus my images cover thoughts of the abstract to the depth of human moods.”
In 1986, Thomas started to show art in public. He shows in outdoor-indoor art shows, galleries, and museums in various states. He has also won many show awards.
Thomas uses both conventional and digital photography techniques. The only photos that are manipulated are his abstract pieces. His photos range in color, but are all archival quality. They are also limited printings, signed, and numbered.
“Each image is a moment in time. Past to present to future.”
– John William Henry Wright Thomas
I met John per Columbus art festivals back in the 1980’s. Many of my pieces that I purchased from him are from various Amish settings. I treasure them all as it’s apparent that his heart/soul is present in each shot.
After our initial meeting, he always recognized me in subsequent visits to his booth even when those meetings were a year apart.