Antonia Thomas

Dr. Antonia Thomas is a Lecturer in Archaeology at the University of the Highlands and Islands (UHI), based at Orkney College. She leads the MA Contemporary Art and Archaeology, a unique interdisciplinary programme delivered entirely online. Her research focuses on the intersection of Art and Archaeology, encompassing Neolithic art, graffiti, mark-making, and contemporary archaeological practices. She has authored impactful works on topics like the Ness of Brodgar’s decorated stonework and co-led REF2021’s ‘Art/Archaeology’ impact case study. Dr. Thomas teaches across Archaeology and Visual Arts modules, including Cultural Heritage Management and Sustainability. She supervises postgraduate research in areas like Contemporary Art and Archaeology.

Her academic roles include Programme Leader for the MA Contemporary Art and Archaeology and Module Leader for courses like ‘Art and Environment’ and ‘Final Project’. She holds fellowships with the Higher Education Academy and contributes to initiatives like the International Network for Contemporary Archaeology in Scotland (INCAScot). Her research extends to projects on Scotland’s early farming practices and Arctic humanities, blending fieldwork with theoretical exploration.

Dr. Thomas has published widely in journals and edited volumes, with a focus on Orkney’s Neolithic heritage, contemporary art collaborations, and interdisciplinary pedagogy. Her work emphasizes creative engagement, including summer schools linking art and archaeology. She also serves as a Trustee of Stromness Museum and participates in global networks like the British Academy Early Career Network.