“We have computer chips that can connect us with everyone across the world, but we can’t stop killing each other. That’s probably a crisis of imagination, and that’s where I think art plays a role,” says Thomas. “Say what you want about the power or impact of art at a gallery, but it is part of my attempt to bear witness, to call into loving action, and also to look sternly at who we are and ask the question of what do we truly represent?” Ask Thomas for his take on the grim mood in the U.S., with polls indicating that a majority of Americans, regardless of political affiliation, believe things are heading in the wrong direction, and he doesn’t hesitate. “The polls don’t ask the important follow-up question, which is, What are you going to do about it?” he says. “Are you going to keep demonizing people who you disagree with? Are you going to just huddle and try to protect your little version of your safe community, or are you going to actually try to become an active participant in enhancing the things that you care about.” Thank you @wsj @stephen_wallis 📷 @photodre for this amazing piece about my shows @parrishartmuseum @jackshainman