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Thomas KinkadeAmerican artist
Date of Birth: 19.01.1958
Country:  USA |
Content:
- Early Life and Education
- Artistic Beginnings and Collaborations
- Painter of Light
- Entrepreneurial Success
- Literary Contributions and Personal Life
- Legacy and Impact
Early Life and Education
Thomas Kinkade, an American artist renowned for his realistic and idyllic paintings, was born and raised in Placerville, California. He graduated from high school in 1976 and went on to attend the University of California, Berkeley. Kinkade also studied at the Art Center College of Design in Pasadena. He was greatly influenced by artists Charles Bell and Glenn Wessels, who encouraged his pursuit of a fine arts education.
Artistic Beginnings and Collaborations
In 1980, Kinkade embarked on a cross-country trip with his friend James Gurney, which culminated in their arrival in New York City. They signed a contract with Guptill Publications to create an instructional sketchbook for aspiring artists, "The Artist's Guide to Sketching," which became a bestseller upon its release in 1982. Kinkade and Gurney subsequently worked on Ralph Bakshi's animated film "Fire and Ice," where Kinkade developed his understanding of lighting and landscape painting in imaginative worlds.
Painter of Light
Kinkade's artistic career shifted to traditional painting, which he sold through mail order and specialty stores. He focused on enhancing the luminosity of his images, branding himself as "Thomas Kinkade, Painter of Light." His artwork captuered the essence of everyday scenes, transforming prints into seemingly original creations. Kinkade expanded his product line through collaborations with major companies such as Hallmark, featuring his images on calendars, puzzles, greeting cards, and CDs.
Entrepreneurial Success
Kinkade proved to be a skilled businessman as well as an artist. From 1997 to 2005, he earned an estimated $53 million. He established a chain of "Thomas Kinkade Signature Galleries" across the United States, but its profitability declined during the global financial crisis. Despite criticism for commercializing his art, Kinkade received numerous awards, including the National Association of Limited Edition Dealers' "Award of Excellence."
Literary Contributions and Personal Life
Beyond painting, Kinkade authored or co-authored over 120 books. He married Nanette in 1982, and they had four children: Merritt, Chandler, Winsor, and Everett. The couple divorced in 2011, a year before Thomas Kinkade's untimely death.
Legacy and Impact
On April 6, 2012, Thomas Kinkade passed away at his home in Monte Sereno, California. The cause of death was initially attributed to natural causes, but an autopsy was scheduled. Kinkade's legacy lives on through his iconic paintings, which have become ingrained in American popular culture. His contributions to California tourism and his entrepreneurial spirit have left a lasting impact on the art world and beyond.
