Tom Gaines

Tom was born in New York City, spending his early years in the Riverdale section of the Bronx where his Father practiced Medicine. Tom is a Graduate of Fordham Preparatory School and Fordham University, where he received an Arts/Science Degree in Pre-Med. Initially wanting to follow his Father’s footsteps, he decided his interests were too varied for the highly vocational requirements of Medicine. He went on to do post-graduate studies in Economics and Finance at New York University, and Legal Studies at Fordham Law School. Tom opted for a corporate career and progressed into C-level assignments in several iconic American Companies. He came to Australia many years ago with his Aussie wife and young family. He had visited twice previously and was attracted to its people and its lifestyle.

Tom was always a believer in integrating his business life with hobbies and interests, as well as service to church and community. His love of art, which began at a very early age, never left him. It was always a passionate hobby which he took up again in later years. Tom tries to express in his paintings a deeper spiritual reality evident in all he sees around him. He also believes painting is all about light and its wondrous interaction on a subject, as well as a centre of interest that conveys this deeper meaning. He characterises his painting style as idealised realism, and prefers to work with strong, dynamic colours, giving drama and impact to his work. He decided a few years ago to try watercolours, having painted in oils many years earlier. Watercolour was a new challenge, and although there were significant hurdles to overcome, he is happily continuing his journey.

Though he has provided introductory insights into each of his paintings, Tom recognises that ultimately value and meaning is really in the province of the viewer. He hopes you too are inspired to take this journey of discovery, and, as in Mark Twain's poetic metaphor, to "Sail away from the safe harbour. Catch the trade winds in your sails. Explore, Dream, Discover."