Thomas Parslow FRAS 

I was born in Sydney in 1947. My father, Keith Parslow, was an artist, and I followed in his footsteps.

After leaving school I worked on a newspaper and went to East Sydney Technical College at night studying illustration and painting. I had some great teachers, among them the brilliant Nell Wilson.

It led to a 40-year career in publishing and advertising.

It also led to being accepted into the Royal Art Society in 1990 where I was later privileged to serve as vice-president for a number of years.

Every experience pursuing my love of art has expanded my knowledge, from viewing the works of the masters in galleries (especially an exhibition of 100 works by my all-time favourite John Singer Sargent in NYC), to attending amazing workshops, including one with legendary illustrator, Drew Struzan.

After marrying my wife Carol, she became both muse and sounding board while also realising that where art is created, so too is mess.

I have been a finalist in the Doug Moran Portrait Prize, and have received other awards including The Judy Pennefather Prize in the 2023 RAS Drawing Exhibition. I live near the coast in Sydney’s East where I find much of my inspiration.