Guildhouse and Brown Falconer Architects are pleased to announce South Australian multidisciplinary artist Thom Buchanan as the successful recipient of the inaugural Brown Falconer Artist in Residence program.
Presented in partnership by Guildhouse and Brown Falconer Architects, the opportunity is designed from a commitment to amplify South Australian artists, craftspeople and designers.
The program supports sustainable and expanded cross-disciplinary practices by inviting the Artist in Residence into meaningful exchange with the studio, supporting the creation of new work, and delivering a presentation outcome at Brown Falconer Architects (Adelaide Studio) during History Festival 2025.
Living and working in Tarntanya, Adelaide, Thom Buchanan’s cross-disciplinary practice interrogates ideas of the physiological ramifications of built and natural environments. Thom has exhibited extensively locally, nationally and internationally, and is regularly commissioned by numerous festivals including dance and theatre organisations. His work is informed by his background in drawing and painting, incorporating elements of installation, photography, video, performance, sound, murals and collaboration.
Of his appointment, Thom says ‘I am thrilled to embark on this Artist in Residence opportunity, where my research will focus on observing conversations and sharing insights that will naturally interlaced with my creative practice. This residency offers a profound exploration of dialogue and the subtle art of listening, with each moment of discovery weaving seamlessly into the fabric of my work. I’m filled with anticipation, eager to see how this journey shapes and evolves my practice
To be hosted by this world-renowned architecture firm, with 80 years of expertise and innovation, is an honour beyond measure. The wealth of knowledge and history it holds offers a rich landscape for inspiration and growth, providing a unique and invaluable opportunity to intertwine my art with the legacy of architectural mastery. It is a truly incredible environment for both exploration and creative development.’
Brown Falconer shares ‘We are thrilled to welcome Thom Buchanan as the inaugural Brown Falconer Artist in Residence. This program reflects our commitment to creative collaboration and the exchange of ideas between art, architecture, and design. We can’t wait to see Thom’s unique perspective unfold in our studio and beyond.’
Beth Neate, CEO Guildhouse, says ‘We are delighted to be partnering with Brown Falconer to deliver this bespoke Artist in Resident Program. Guildhouse is committed to supporting artists at every career stage and encouraging meaningful and impactful interdisciplinary practice within the creative industries. We thank Brown Falconer for their support for this program and congratulate Guildhouse Member Thom Buchanan on his selection as the inaugural Brown Falconer Artist in Residence.’
Thom will undertake 6-months of artist-led research through the residency, leading to the presentation of new work during History Festival 2025.
Learn more about Thom’s practice: www.thombuchanan.net
ARTIST BIOGRAPHY
Thom Buchanan is a multi-disciplinary artist, living and working in Tarntanya, Adelaide on the Kaurna country. He graduated with a Bachelor of Visual Arts (Honours) from the School of Art, Architecture and Design at Uni SA. His practice traverses a cross-disciplinary mode of investigations. Informed by his background in drawing and painting, it also incorporates installation, photography, video, performance, sound, murals and collaborations.
Buchannan is a master of large-scale live performative works and collaboration. He has been interrogating ideas of the physiological ramifications of built and natural environments for 15 years and still asking questions. He has exhibited extensively locally, nationally, and internationally and has won a number of Art Prizes and major grants. Buchanan’s work is held in esteemed collections in Australia and across the globe in private and corporate collections.
His work has been commissioned by The State Theatre Company SA 2013, 2016, Australian Dance Theatre 2011, Vivid Festival Sydney 2018, Adelaide Festival 2010, 2012, 2013, 2015, 2022, 2024, 2026, Edinburgh Fringe Festival UK 2018, Limosani Projekets 2018, 2023, Fringe Festival SA 2003-23, SALA Festival 2000-24, the Surge Festival in Glasgow 2018, Wonderwalls Festival 2015, do it [Adel] Samstag Museum 2015, Cabaret Festival 2018, Guitar Festival 2012, Canberra Centenary 2011, Canberra Symphony Orchestra 2011, Zephyr Quartet 2009, Big Picture Pillar festival 2020, Big Day Out 2004,2007, Rise Festival NZ Christchurch Museum 2013, ExplandLAB Adelaide Film Festival 2023, SIDance Festival Seoul 2024, Cupa Dupa Festival NZ 2024, Slingsby Theatre Company 2018, 2024, 2026, Neoteric SA Survay Adelaide Festival 2022 and Illuminate Festival 2024.
In 2022, Thom conceived, developed and initiated, in conjunction with colleague Ray Harris, ‘Neoteric’ the new survey exhibition for mid-career South Australian artists at the Adelaide Festival.
Images (L-R): Anthropocene
