Chris Thomas
(b. 1970 )
Chris Thomas is a Kentucky native and realist oil painter known for his carefully composed still lifes and occasional trompe l’oeil details. He began his career working primarily in watercolor, but in 1992 he attended the Art Students League of New York City, where he studied under Harvey Dinnerstein and was introduced to oil painting. Afterward, he spent several years studying master artists and refining his technique as he developed his own approach to realism.
Chris’s work has been represented by galleries across the country, including several years with John Pence Gallery in San Francisco, where he exhibited in numerous group shows and gained strong collector support—particularly for his toy paintings. His work has been recognized with awards, including a Purchase Award from the Evansville Museum’s 52nd Mid-State Art Exhibition for Spirit of Cain, and a portrait displayed at the Kentucky State Capitol, where he was recognized by the Governor.
After a season focused on ministry and teaching, Chris returned with renewed momentum, exhibiting again and earning recognition through organizations such as Art Renewal Center, Oil Painters of America and the National Oil & Acrylic Painters’ Society. He continues to paint full-time and opens his studio once a week to teach, sharing his experience and working methods with other artists.