Growing up in North Carolina, he was drawn to the arts from an early age and went on to graduate from North Carolina State University's School of Design with degrees in architecture, while continuing to pursue drawing and painting in his free time. It was after moving to Arizona 30+ years ago that his fine arts education truly began, in the deserts and forests of the southwest.

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Developing a love of great open spaces, hiking, camping and rock climbing soon filled his free time, where he absorbed the beauty of nature and learned to observe his surroundings. These experiences inspired him to transition to painting full time as a way of honoring these timeless and mythical western places.

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His exploration of the natural world, the effects of sunlight and emotional connection is never ending. He participates in many plein air festivals to share the places he loves with his collectors and demystify the creative process. Tom works in both plein air and in his studio, always in the pursuit of capturing the magic of light and the hidden truths of the natural world.​​​