Lori Thomson

Dedicated arts administrator, curator, and educator with a multifaceted career at the intersection of contemporary art, student development, and community engagement. Committed to a "gallery as a classroom" philosophy, I leverage exhibition spaces as sites for interdisciplinary learning. I foster inclusive environments where students engage critically with contemporary art practices while supporting regional artists and cultural growth.

Proven track record in collaborative leadership, exhibition management, and developing inclusive curricula that connects creative work to broader cultural and social contexts.

Art Educator - Self-employed - Fort Worth, TX

(1997)

Designed and implemented inclusive art curricula for diverse student populations, ranging from youth to adults.

Director/Curator - Firehouse Gallery - Fort Worth, TX

(2003 - 2009)

• Conceptualized and executed over 50 exhibitions featuring regional and national artists.
• Managed artist relations, including coordinating talks, workshops, and interdisciplinary collaborations.
• Integrated academic curricula (English, Science) into gallery programming, utilizing gallery space as an alternative learning environment.
• Maintained a clean, safe, and professional gallery environment for all visitors.

Assistant Gallery Director - Texas State University

(1998 - 1999)

• Installed exhibitions for visiting artists and students.
• Managed logistics for guest lecturers and artist talks.

High School Art Educator - FWISD - Fort Worth, TX

(2012 - 2017)

Implemented choice-based art education, encouraging students to explore diverse mediums and develop a personal artistic voice.

Art Program Developer - 4-H Neighborhood Art Program - Fort Worth, TX

(2003 - 2013)

Developed art programs that cultivated a connection between art and "place," resulting in a deeper understanding of community identity.

Program Creator - Northeast Arts Council - Fort Worth, TX

(2008 - 2010)

Created programs exposing students to various media, culminating in public performances of student work.

Art Educator - The Arlington Museum of Art - Arlington, TX

(2005 - 2006)

Facilitated multi-week art experiences for children aged 7–12, utilizing the gallery as a creative classroom. (2 Summer Residencies)

Community Programming - Art Educator - Various schools, afterschool programs, and community centers - Fort Worth, TX

(1997)

Facilitated art education at various schools, afterschool programs, and community centers, including Fine Arts Day events.

Bachelor of Arts - General Studies with Concentration in Art and Women's Studies - Texas Woman's University (2011)