Tom NewsomCharlotte partnered with Tom Newsom for many reasons, but loved the emotional connection of him being a Texas native, having artwork in the field of aerospace like her late father's engineering career, and the kindred spirit of his home and studio loation along her family's annual road trip route. Originally from Texas, Tom Newsom graduated with a bachelor of fine arts in illustration from the ArtCenter College of Design in California in 1971. His career began as a freelance artist doing portraits at amusement parks. His work spans commissions for national companies such as Celestial Seasonings, GUND toys, Fisher Price, National Geographic, and Smithsonian, among others. In 1983, Tom was commissioned by NASA to witness a space shuttle launch at Cape Kennedy and to produce several pieces of art for their Manned Space Flight Art Collection, which now resides and is featured in the Smithsonian Air and Space Museum in Washington, DC. In the current era, Christmas themes have become a large portion of his commissions, often featuring Santa Claus. Tom's images of St. Nick can be seen on puzzles, gift bags, textiles, food packaging, and holiday tins. Additionally, his work has been seen in various galleries, mostly in Colorado, generally featuring landscapes or original illustrations. In recent years, he has participated in "plein air" events, remaining connected to nature. Tom currently lives in Idaho Springs, Colorado, where he maintains a collaborative art studio with his wife and is an active member in the local art associations. Read More Read Less