Burgess "Bird" Thomas

About the Artist

Burgess “Bird” Heslep Thomas was born in Abilene, Texas in 1953, in the midst of both a meteorological and cultural “dry spell.” At the age of 18 years, one week, two days, three hours, 45 minutes and 32 seconds, she left skid marks leaving town to “see the world.” She graduated from the University of Texas with a degree in interior design (a hybrid of art and architecture,) which provided her with education and passage into the world of art.

She has enjoyed extensive travel through 53 countries. Having seen much of the world she feared she might be missing, she returned after a 29-year absence, with a deeper understanding and enthusiasm for Abilene’s offerings.

A self-described “Cosmic Hobo,” physical and mental travel has always been an important part of her lifestyle. Metaphysical and spiritual studies, along with life’s experiences, have given her an appreciation for loving “whatever happens.”