If you’ve been around for a while, especially if you are interested in art, you’ve heard the name Thomas Kinkade. If you’re not familiar with his moniker, chances are you’ve still seen one of his famous works of art, perhaps without even knowing it. This is especially true if you’ve shopped at The Bradford Exchange, a great place to discover hundreds of collectibles inspired by or recreating his renowned artwork. But who was Thomas Kinkade?
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A Short History
William Thomas Kinkade III was born in Sacramento California in 1958 and identified at a very early age that he wanted to be a painter. That was his true calling in life. He attended the University of California, Berkeley and the Art Center College of Design in Pasadena where he would learn to hone his craft. But there was something special about Thomas Kinkade’s artistic expression. Something that would begin to show through in his work. Something that he would become known for the world over.
The Painter of Light™
Thomas Kinkade had the unique ability to capture life “the way it should be” that is beyond the way things are. His scenes are quaint, homey, nostalgic and have an idyllic air of comfort and peace. The beautiful cottages, villages and landscapes he painted were the kinds of places people could imagine themselves in. The kinds of places they wanted to be in. A throwback to simpler times where one could curl up next to a cozy fire in their perfect place and forget about all their troubles.
The thing that made his paintings so magical and the thing that got him the most attention was his use of light. Even in the darkest of compositions, there was always light shining through. From out of the sky, from inside the window of a sweet cottage, piercing a storm. It was a symbol of hope. A symbol of the triumph of good over anything that would attempt to ensnare it or stop it. This would become Thomas Kinkade’s signature style. This is what ultimately gave him the name he was known by: the Painter of Light.
His Most Famous Paintings
Fans of Thomas Kinkade’s paintings certainly have their favorites but here are a few that are recognized as his most significant works:
“San Francisco, Lombard Street” from 2001
“Stairway to Paradise” from 1998
“Victorian Christmas” from 1991
“A Holiday Gathering” from 1998
“Garden of Prayer” from 1997
“Mountain Retreat” from 2005
Thomas Kinkade and The Bradford Exchange
Thomas Kinkade was so prolific and his art so beloved that thousands of homes today own some form of his paintings. Usually these are prints, as his originals have skyrocketed in value over the years and are often not affordable. Recognizing the importance of Thomas Kinkade’s work, The Bradford Exchange has had a long-standing relationship with the artist and in present day, his estate. His celebrated artwork has been recreated in framed prints, fine collectibles, home decor, and of course, Christmas decorations (his favorite time of the year), allowing the people who love his art to have their very own piece from the Painter of Light. If you’ve been intrigued by today’s blog article, we invite you to have a look around to discover how Thomas Kinkade’s art can bring inspiration and nostalgia to your home.
Thomas Kinkade 101: A Brief Primer by The Bradford Exchange
About The Bradford Exchange
The Gift Advisors @The Bradford Exchange are thrilled to help you discover a wealth of artistic treasures, all of which began with passion. Whether you are looking for that perfect personalized gift or a unique collection for yourself, we are driven to make your shopping experience as joyful as possible and hope you are surprised and delighted with what you find. Thank you for your continued support.