Artist Tom Farris is set to make a vibrant impact at the annual Festival of Books in Tucson, Arizona, taking place on March 14 and 15, 2026. Farris, a full-time artist from Norman, Oklahoma, is known for his eclectic approach to art, working across multiple mediums to express his creativity. He emphasizes the importance of flexibility in his art, stating, “I try not to stick to any one thing. I don’t ever want to be pigeonholed as a printmaker or a painter.”
Farris will feature prominently at the festival, not only showcasing his unique creations but also participating in events associated with the Arizona State Museum’s pop-up exhibit, “Tricksters and Truthtellers: Different Ways of Seeing.” His work includes a striking piece titled “Custer’s Last Hand,” where he has transformed a vintage slot machine with images related to General George Custer.
Engaging Workshops and Talks
In addition to exhibiting his art, Farris will lead a printmaking workshop on March 13, from 1 to 4 p.m. at The Drawing Studio, located at 2760 N. Tucson Boulevard. The workshop, titled “Visual Sovereignty: A Printmaking Workshop with Tom Farris,” is open to the public for $25, with a discounted rate of $15 for members of the Arizona State Museum and The Drawing Studio. Participants will have the opportunity to carve their own trickster designs and print them.
Later that evening, Farris will present a free illustrated talk, “The Art of Tom Farris,” from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. at the same location. This discussion will focus on his unconventional processes and the inspiration behind his work for the museum exhibit. Registration is required, and space is limited to 50 attendees.
A Diverse Artistic Background
Farris’s background is deeply connected to American Indian art, being a member of the Cherokee Nation and the Otoe-Missouria Tribe. Growing up in a family of avid art collectors, he spent significant time in museums and galleries, which shaped his artistic vision from an early age. “I was the kid that always made stuff out of trash,” he recalls, noting how his creative tendencies led to a childhood filled with experimentation.
His artistic repertoire is vast, extending beyond painting and printmaking to include woodworking, digital creation, and videography. Farris enjoys the challenge of learning new techniques, stating, “If the idea is for a piece of jewelry, then I want to learn how to make a piece of jewelry. I’m all about incidental learning.”
This dynamic approach results in fascinating pieces, such as a customized Volkswagen Jetta that he has transformed both inside and out with his artwork, alongside his slot machine project. His ability to seamlessly blend various artistic forms has earned him a distinctive place in the contemporary art scene.
With a schedule packed with workshops, discussions, and a display of innovative creations, Farris promises to engage festival-goers in a dialogue about art that transcends traditional boundaries. For those interested in exploring his work or participating in his events, more information is available through the Arizona State Museum’s website.
As the Festival of Books approaches, Tom Farris stands ready to inspire and provoke thought through his multifaceted art, inviting attendees to see the world through a unique lens.