Neale Thomas

Neale Thomas, born in Liverpool, in 1969, has crafted an artistic journey that spans the realms of illustration and fine art in two different countries. Having honed his skills through a two-year Art and Design foundation course at Hugh Baird College, Bootle he went on to Kingston Polytechnic, London, and gained a BA (Hons) in Illustration. An Art & Design PGCE from the Institute of Education, University of London, has enabled Neale to maintain a dedication to both practice and pedagogy over many years.
For almost two decades, Neale Thomas carved a niche for himself in the realm of freelance illustration, leaving his creative imprint on numerous magazines and national newspapers in the UK and in Sweden where Neale has resided for 25 years. As a keen classic car enthusiast artistic inspiration shifted whilst living in Sweden and guided him toward a new chapter focused on capturing the golden era of motor racing.

Having resided in Sweden with his wife and four children, Neale Thomas still finds inspiration driving his old British cars around the beautiful landscape surrounding his summer house in Hälsingland and Stockholm, the city he made his home for 10 years. His nomadic spirit has always brought him back to England, where the roots of his artistic evolution began. Since returning to the UK Neale continues and seeks to develop his artistic activity within the rich vibrancy of his native city Liverpool.
Neale’s oil paintings echo the passion for and nostalgia of an era gone by, inviting viewers to embark on a journey through time with each stroke of the brush. The depth, permanence and tactile quality of oil paint is something many artists find appealing. With the process of layering smooth flat areas to create a sense of calm and contemplation Neale reflects a thoughtful approach to his craft. Simplifying elements to a “less is more” philosophy is a powerful way to convey a sense of order and balance in his work. Endeavouring to find unique colour combinations that evoke a personal vision of the past. It’s a way to transport viewers to another time and help them connect with the stories of lives lived during that period.