Thomas Allen Harris

Thomas Allen Harris is an American interdisciplinary artist who explores family, identity, and spirituality in a participatory practice. Since 1990, Harris has remixed archives from multiple origins throughout his work, challenging hierarchy within historical narratives through the use of documentary and research methodologies that center vernacular image and collaboration. He is currently a professor of film and media studies and African-American studies at Yale University.

His most recent project is the television show Family Pictures USA, which examines neighborhoods and cities of the United States through the lens of family photographs, collaborative performances, and personal testimony sourced from their communities.

Early life and education Harris was born in 1962. He was raised in the Bronx. His brother is artist Lyle Ashton Harris. His stepfather was South African activist Benjamin Pule Leinaeng. He spent part of his childhood in Tanzania, where he attended a local school.

Harris graduated from Harvard University with a biology degree in 1984.

Harris lectures widely on visual literacy and the use of media as a tool for social change. His media appearances include C-SPAN, the Tavis Smiley Show, NPR, Metrofocus, AriseTV, and a TEDx Talk. He has curated for Gay and Lesbian film festivals including Mix and Outfest. Academia He held a tenured position as Associate Professor of Media Arts at the University of California, San Diego. He was a Visiting Professor of Film and New Media at Sarah Lawrence College.

He joined the faculty of Yale University as a Senior Lecturer in African American and Film & Media Studies. He later became a professor.

Personal life Harris is gay.