people
H. Gene Thompson
H. Gene Thompson (they/them) is a multimedia sculptor and performance artist from Pittsburgh. They use soft sculpture that is worn and performed with dance and movement to explore new formats in which communities experience live performance and visual art. They are interested in using this application of media to break down isolating barriers in our culture and to build connections between people by creating accessible public art experiences.
Thompson has been touring their work nationally since 2013 intermittently, between projects and workshops at community centers, libraries, and schools. They seek to initiate new formats that contribute to conversations about how live performance and immersive art can shape our experience of the world.
Thompson has a strong foundations as a fiber artist, sculptor, printmaker, and artist educator. They have spent the past 10 years developing and leading workshops they use as a conduit for social emotional learning, connecting a wide range in ages and communities.
They have been the recipient of grants and residencies involving organizations such as: Pittsburgh Office of Public Art, BikePGH, Girty’s Run Watershed Association, New Hazlett Theater, The Children’s Museum of Pittsburgh, Kelly Strayhorn Pittsburgh, Laboratory Spokane WA, Charles Adams Studio Project Lubbock TX, AS220 Providence RI, Neu Kirche Contemporary Art Center Pittsburgh, and Future Tenant Pittsburgh. BFA 2012, Carnegie Mellon University
