The career of R. Tom Gilleon has been an interesting one, and one that has led to his living in all four corners of the
country. For this reason he is compelled to paint a variety of subject matter. "My interests are so varied it's only natural
that my art will be varied. The subject itself isn't as important as the emotion it evokes. It is the implication of a story
being told, the visual connection between shapes that makes a good painting."
Tom's experience in so many artistic fields has added great versatility to his talent. While he has always worked as
a fine artist, he has for many years also been an illustrator. Beginning with NASA's Apollo project followed by Disney and
other theme park groups. Working with many of the great art directors led to his involvement with the motion picture industry.
One of his favorite jobs was painting matte paintings for the Disney movie 'Dick Tracy'.
"Looking back, I was most influenced by the 'old-era' art directors and illustrators, especially Herb Ryman, who had
the amazing ability to quickly and simply tell a story or convey a feeling with their brush. I believe this simplicity and
strength is the ket to fine art. Light, color, value, and line are all paramount in importance."
For many years Tom and his family have made their home in Montana. In the beginning they lived in the mountains near
Augusta, and now on their ranch near Cascade. There Tom paints and occasionally repairs fences.
