Thomas Steven Burgard

 I studied fine art at California State Long Beach and graduated with a BFA in drawing and painting with a minor in sculpture. I’ve always been drawn to exploring new places and living new experiences.  Inspired by the beauty of the sea and the ancient trees, I routinely set off on daily treks to find new views to study in plein air oils. Back at home in the studio, I use my oil studies along with photographic references of the sites to create larger finished oil paintings. 

Most of my work is created outdoors where I translate ideas and experiences into images. Growing up on the beaches of southern California, I learned to love the sea, to live in it, and to be inspired by it. And those two passions from childhood, creating art and being in the water, are what sustain my soul and what I hope to translate and share in my art. So depending on the weather, you can find me either roaming the coast with paints in hand or surfing the energy of the sea. 

In addition to conventional oil paintings, I also work in wood and metals for both sculpture and functional art such as entry gates, doors, and furniture. I offer originals and commissioned pieces as well as project based works including murals.