As a young man, my artistic inclinations were expressed through music.   I composed and performed pop music and released several albums.  I continue to compose and record music today.  I find that expression in the auditory domain, as well as the visual domain, can similarly communicate emotions, movement, and depth.   

After retiring from a 45-year career in the corporate world, I decided to pursue expression in visual art.  As I was drawn to color and organic abstract images, I selected this as a beginning point for my work.  I use acrylic paint as my medium and canvas as my surface.  Generally, I choose an analogous palette with complementary highlights.  Often the colors are bold with metallic undertones to heighten value change.  I work in many layers, working with light values within the layers to create depth.   

I have often used sponges and rags to create blends and fades that can be inherently difficult due to the characteristic nature of acrylic paint.  I try to design a piece that has continuity, but allows for a “surprise” or two along the way.   

Art, and the need for self-expression, are as old as humanity.  Lascaux Cave in southwestern France, for example, houses some of the most famous of prehistoric paintings.  Around 17,000 years ago, impressive paintings were created by clearly skilled hands.    

Prevailing views attach a spiritual component to them.  To say that this expression was important to the artists would be an understatement.  Sandstone lamps that used animal fat to light the dark interiors of the cave, pigments sourced from over 150 miles away, “brushes” made from horsehair, and use of stencils all indicate the importance to these Paleolithic people of creating art.   

This is just one example of the timeless connection of humanity and our need to express ourselves.  

Thomas' bold textural abstract art, from minimal to heavily textured paintings, range from small to large daring works on canvas.