Name: Barry Thomas
Alma Mater: University of Arkansas
Sport: Football
Position: Defensive End
Years Played: 1981-1983
Highlights: Beat Texas Longhorns, won Blue Bonnet Bowl
Business: Barry Thomas Studio & Gallery |
An accomplished artist, Thomas’ talents have nurtured a diverse career. Starting at the University of Arkansas, he joined the Razorback football team. Thomas’ team beat Florida in the Blue Bonnet Bowl, in (1982) with a 9-2-1 record ,ranked no.8th final ranking UPI, and he boasts over beating the Texas Longhorns, who were number one in the nation in (1981). At six-foot plus, Thomas played defensive end for famous coach, Lou Holtz, who helped convince Barry to follow his dream of becoming an artist.
Just one year after receiving his fine arts degree from the Art Center College of Design in Pasadena, California, Thomas was chosen for the Society of Illustration Hallmark Award. That same year he was honored with an award from The Society of Illustration of New York City.
After graduation from the Art Center, Thomas worked as an Illustrator in the Los Angeles area. He gained experience with designing backgrounds for the animation industry.
Today, Thomas’ paintings have gained the appreciation of many collectors across the country. “I try to convey a lot of light and color in my paintings,” Thomas says. With most of his inspiration coming from his wife, Piper, and their children Kendall, Hannah, and Denton, Thomas’ family has become the subject of many of his paintings. From all areas of the United States, collectors, including the President and First Lady, have discovered Thomas’ exceptional art at numerous galleries.
“Football gave me discipline and work ethic. It taught me how to motivate and inspire myself to be successful.” Regions Bank and the SEC salute Barry Thomas as a colorful example of what you can achieve with everyday confidence.