About Thomas E. McMillin
As of 03/15/2025, I am 74 years old, a father of 3 Girls, a grandfather of 9 Grandkids, and a Great Grandfather of 8. I
always believed, the Lord is the ultimate Artist and I try, with His Grace, to capture his work the best I can.
I was raised in Wisconsin, where I was thrilled to have one of my works in the hometown art museum at 8 years old. My friends and family enjoyed my art. I continued to paint, usually in oils on canvas, or pen, pencil, oil crayons, and charcoal. I found that for every work that I sold, I would get at least 2 orders. My Mother said, "You can't make a living as an artist". But filled her house with my works.
In 1971 Uncle Sam sent me an invitation to join his group of soldiers in the Army at 20. I refused to be forced to do anything
I did not choose ...so...I joined the Marine Corps.
My Dad said, “What? You jumped out of the frying pan into the fire.”
I served almost 8 years...making and selling works across this country and Japan. One of my best sellers was, what I called, a personality painting. I gave my potential customers a list, of about 25 items, they feel might make the best painting for them.
I would then make a composite of, as many of their choices, as I could, in one painting,
The customer would choose, and pay for, a canvas (the size of their choice), and we'd agree on the price of the finished work. Then I painted it. When done, the customer would see the painting and decide whether they wanted it or not. Refusing would be an option, but the canvas would then be mine. *To date no one has ever chosen not to buy the painting.*
Where possible, I send progressional pictures of the artwork ordered. Input by the customer is encouraged and any changes will be considered.
I am now retired and I have time to make the artwork a priority. Please explore my site and feel free to contact me if I have sparked any interest in artwork for you and your loved ones.