“Evening on the Avenue ”

Evening on the Avenue, inspired by a still-flourishing main street in Charleston, SC, is a nostalgic look back to a time when streets like this were the life-blood of the nation and not mere curiosities.

A clearing dusk paints the scene with a silvery softness as gas lamps and windows blaze gold and amber; rain-washed pavement adds a festive glow.

The painting has a symbolic message: the peacefulness and serenity of traditional communities are still the heart of any nation.

“Cobblestone Evening”
Sizes: 18x27; 24x36; 28x42

• “Cobblestone Evening” is the seventh and final image in the Cobblestone Lane series, which began with Cobblestone Lane

• Thom has placed a total of (12) N’s in the painting as a gesture of his ongoing love for his lovely wife Nanette.

• The English Cotswolds of the Cobblestone Lane series are one of Thom and Nanette’s favorite destinations. They visited there in the summer of 2004.

• The fisherman on the bridge of Cobblestone Evening was inspired by a fishing sanctuary located on a country estate in Fairford, in the Cotswolds. Thom and Nanette used to have picnics on the lawns of the fishing preserve and would watch the fishermen from the Ewdardian bridge.

• Thom has always been drawn to sheep. He sees them as a symbol of village life and a true feature of England

“Sunrise Chapel”
Sizes 18”x27”; 24”x36”

In “Sunrise Chapel” Thom has created a radiant metaphor for the Lord's tender mercies that reward a faithful life.

“Sunrise Chapel is heavily symbolic. The flow of water through rivers and lakes symbolizes the passage of time; light, of course, symbolizes God's light and impact on our lives as it shines from the heavens as well as through the stained glass windows of the chapel; the ancient stones that line the headland are a symbol for our unwavering faith in God's promise.

“San Francisco, the Presidio”
Sizes 16”x20”; Edition of only 295

“When I set up my large easel in the San Francisco 's richly historic Presidio, I was blessed with a glorious morning. Shadows danced on the foreground and the ancient chapel seemed to come alive. The Presidio is one of San Francisco 's oldest districts; since the Spanish occupation in 1776, it has been the site of Spanish, Mexican, and U.S. naval and military operations. The region, with its nearly five hundred historic buildings, sPleindid hiking trails, and spectacular natural vistas became a part of the Golden Gate National Recreation Area in 1994.

“Mountain Paradise ”
Sizes 18x27; 24x36; 28x42

It is possible to embrace the world of our deepest dreams. Thom does that as an artist, and it is his fervent hope that canvases like the new “Mountain Paradise” enable you to do that as well.

Mountain Paradise is set in one of God's heroic mountain landscapes. Here is a rustic cabin nestled into a truly idyllic hideaway. A mountain stream cascades over an array of ancient stones, creating myriad waterfalls that sing their praise of the Lord in the voices of water. Isn't that a guitar and fiddle resting in the shadows of the cabin porch?

Access to Thom's paradise is provided by an old wooden bridge. Intriguing trails and a waiting canoe entice the camper to explore the nearby hills by foot or water. A handsome stag and mate and a lively flock of wild turkeys attest to the abundance of wildlife; wild ducks drop in for a landing. “Mountain Paradise” is truly my daydream of an idyllic mountain hideaway.

"Lakeside Manor”/Mansions in Paradise I
Sizes: 18x27; 24x36; 28x42; 40x60

In His intriguing account of Paradise, Jesus proclaimed that each of us will find a welcoming home amidst its ”many mansions. In my new Mansions in Paradise series, I turn my artist’s eye away from the humble cottages of village and town and toward more majestic dwellings. My goal in this series is to create mansions truly worthy of a paradise, whether earthly or heavenly.

My vision of Paradise includes the idyllic, tranquil landscapes that I like to think of as “heaven on earth.” What could be more sublime than a serene lake reflecting the majesty of the heavens in its mirror-like surface? The gardens of Paradise are lavish with flowers; the weather, surely, is what we like to think of as “a perfect Spring day.” In my Paradise, radiant sunsets last for hours.

At once majestic and comfortably human in scale, Lakeside Manor, first in my new series, nestles along the shore of this cobalt blue lake. Here is a grand mansion complete with cozy nooks where you might comfortably settle in for a warming cup of tea or a long evening’s conversation. A weathered old stone bridge invites visitors to stroll the verdant grounds, while the brook at the left provides a tranquil background murmur to make the spirit soar.

“Stanley Creek ”
Sizes: 9x12 & 16x20

The pleasure of a dramatic plein air study, like the pleasure of the majestic natural vista that inspires it, is timeless. Some years ago, when I first started hauling my painting apparatus deep into the woods, I came upon Stanley Creek bubbling through the foothills of Idaho 's spectacular Sawtooth Mountains . I was entranced by the sere brown of the autumn grasses and the crisp clarity of the water dancing down the mountainside as I set to work with bold strokes to capture the entrancing scene.

For many years after, this painting held an honored place in the Kinkade home. Then, after visiting our gallery in Boise , I decided to offer Stanley Creek as my first print to celebrate the beauty of the Sawtooth region.

Looking back, when I came upon the setting of Stanley Creek so many years ago, I suffered a momentary pang of regret that I had not brought my fishing gear instead of my paint and canvas. But now I see that instead of trout, I caught a memory of God's glory reflected in the icy waters of Stanley Creek.

“Boston Celebration ”

In “Boston Celebration” I return to a favorite subject at a different time of day and year. I first painted historic Boston Commons fourteen years ago on a damp fall afternoon. Now, I follow that collector favorite with “Boston Celebration”, meant to evoke the thrilling days following the Patriots' 2005 Super Bowl triumph which came on the heels of the curse-breaking Red Sox World Series. Flags celebrating the champions festoon the square; blazing lights seem to herald the exciting moment; the glowing façade of Park Street Church looms like a victory torch.

“Disneyland 50 th Anniversary”

How many children have stood at this very spot, eyes wide with wonder at their first glimpse of Sleeping Beauty Castle, since Disneyland® park opened fifty years ago?

I was one. On our annual visits to Grandma’s house, we never failed to make a stop at the Disneyland® park. I’m sure that some of my romantic ideas about architecture were formed as I wandered these fabulous grounds.

When the Disneyland 50th Anniversary gala was announced, I jumped at the chance to paint this place of joyous memories.

I was given special permission to set up my easel on Main Street to paint a plein air study. Swarms of people gathered round to watch and encourage as I painted Sleeping Beauty Castle, soon to be festooned with decorations, flags, and banners celebrating Disneyland’s 50th. I couldn’t resist painting my own family, buying balloons at the lower right of the canvas, among the diverse crowd.

The drama of sunset in my Disneyland 50th Anniversary suggests the end of an era, while the glowing lights at the base of the castle remind us that a new age of imagination and celebration awaits.

“Stillwater Cottage ”
May 2005

“Stillwater Cottage” which introduces my new Peaceful Cottages series, is, in a sense the companion piece to a painting I did years ago entitled Beside Still Waters. I wanted Stillwater Cottage to come alive for you as a place of refuge.  The light pouring from the wondows suggests that a family dwells at peace within.  Carefully observed details - the weathered brass bell over the door, the ancient stone bench, and the graceful gliding swans - give this cottage character.  The rich colors of sunset bathe the glade and the distant trees in glorious light.  Here God's perfect peace reigns.

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“Gate of New Beginnings”
May 2005

Any life worth living is a life enriched by frequent new beginnings. Recently, I entered into a new beginning of my own: the third decade of my life's work as a published artist. As I think back on all the memories and inspirations the last twenty years have held, I am filled with eager anticipation of what the coming decade may bring.

Perhaps in your own life you've had cause to reflect on a season of new beginnings recently. Perhaps you have encountered in recent days a new love to savor, or a new career opportunity to embrace, or even a new life challenge to be faced. This is the inspiration behind this new painting.

Gate of New Beginnings celebrates the buoyant human spirit which always embraces new seasons of change. It is also the first print I have created especially for our most loyal collectors – those who graciously take part in our exciting events each year.

Only very limited quantities of this image will be available. It is an event-only piece and can be purchased only in conjunction with certain Thomas Kinkade events and will be available from our Gallery as part of the upcoming “Ambassador of Light” tour event taking place on August 6 th . It will be available for only one year and has a very small edition size. The painting will be retired on June 30, 2006.

“London”
May 2005

"London is the rarest of contemporary cities – at once rich with picturesque landmarks and invigorated by modern energies. I set up my easel at just this spot to capture its two faces. I painted within the shadows of Westminster Bridge , ancient and massive, while a regal sunset illuminated the reflections of the House of Parliament and the Tower of Big Ben in the silvery water of the Thames .

I had some fun with the river, hiding the periscope of a vintage submarine in its depths, and a bobbing bottle, perhaps containing a love note to my wife Nanette."

Special Note : This painting is being introduced with a special silk screened remarque of the "London" study sketch (the sketch from which the painting was created) on the reverse side of the canvas.  These special canvases will only be available for a limited introductory period.  Place your orders early to get the lowest certificate number possible and the exclusive London sketch on the back.

“Mountain Retreat”
April 2005

In Mountain Retreat I share a vision of nature as the Peaceable Kingdom , where man fits harmoniously into a glorious natural setting, and gentle creatures – wild turkeys, deer, and ducks – live without fear. A bubbling brook flows serenely past the sturdy log cabin, feeding a crystal clear pool where the weary wanderer might pause to swim or cast his fly rod for plump brook trout.

Mountain Retreat , firs work in a new series that bears the same name, is the spiritual heir to my well known print form 2002, A Peaceful Retreat . Like the earlier painting, Mountain Retreat explores the nuances of man's interaction with nature. An enamel coffee pot stands next to the campfire, smoke curls from the cabin's chimney, and golden light pours from the windows.

The last rays of sunset light up the clouds and touch the trees with a radiant fire. I particularly like the dramatic effect of light on the oak trees at the left, which reminds us that God is the greatest painter of all.

For the collector who enjoys cabin settings, I hope this latest addition will become a new favorite. I invite you to come and sit beside the campfire with me, pull up a log stump to sit upon, and enjoy the sounds of this peaceful setting in nature's paradise.

“The Edge of the Wilderness”
April 2005

It can be fascinating to look back at the path you've walked in your life. When I was a young man, working my way toward my mature painting style, I fell under the influence of artists who would point me in directions I would later make my own. In my student days, I discovered the work of the great American landscape painters like Thomas Hill, Albert Bierstadt, and Frederick Church as well. Their ability to imbue landscape with spiritual qualities delighted and inspired me.

The Edge of the Wilderness , an epic work created while I was still in my twenties, reflects my early experiments with creating a sublime landscape style all my own. The painting was clearly inspired by early masters of the mythology of the American West, but it also displays the distinctive touches that would define my later works.

Every great artist has experienced an evolution of their personal style. As time passes by, different themes emerge – influences infiltrate and the resultant artwork tells the story. This collection stands as a tribute to the early stages in Thomas Kinkade's development as an artist – it is in their creation that the Painter of Light was born.

“ Montmartre ”
April 2005

My artist's heart beats faster in Montmartre , surrounded as I am by the heritage of giants. When I set up my easel and canvas on the sidewalks of what was, a century ago, the artistic capital of the world, I know that I follow in the steps of Toulouse-Lautrec, Manet, and all the others who made this section of Paris the symbol of the artistic lifestyle. Happily, Parisian women still stroll the boulevards with parasols in hand, so that my Montmartre retains its historic flavor.

“A Summers Morning”
April 2005

The play of light on the water intrigues and challenges me today, much as it challenged the Impressionist masters a century ago. Like Monet, I love to set up my easel on a riverbank and attempt to capture the multiple reflections and the sparkle of sunlight as a gentle breeze ripples the stream. In my impressionist work, A Summers Morning , the reflections of sailboats dance on the crystal waters. I try to make my brush dance on my canvas, much as Monet's brush dance when he painted outdoors a century ago.

“THE GUIDING LIGHT” / Lights of Inspiration I
February 2005

Some believe that artists are touched by a spark of divine fire. I have always felt that true inspiration is a gift from our Creator, and have often heard stories from Collectors who have found renewed strength, hope or comfort from something I have created. In that sense perhaps all artists, whether musician, painter, or poet can at times be a vessel of God's profound mercy and love. If this is true, then inspiration can be thought of as both spiritual and deeply human.

The Guiding Light, first in my Lights of Inspiration series, speaks to the dual nature of inspiration. This brilliant sunset penetrates the swirling storms that sometimes afflict our soul, reminding us that the deep emotions of hope and faith are a truer reflection of our spiritual nature than any doubt or turmoil can be. This radiant light works in concert with the towering clouds to create a sunset that is among the most luminous and dramatic I have ever attempted to capture on canvas.

The Guiding Light introduces a compositional format that is new for me. The long, narrow canvas is perfect for those settings in the home that call for a panoramic vision. As I worked, I envisioned this handsome piece over a comfortable sofa or above a rustic fireplace or in some other special setting. Surely, this dramatic panorama might carry the viewer's imagination to sweeping distant vistas. The low horizon line also allows me to accentuate the drama of the sunset above. Certainly the one word I would use to summarize my newest work would be: inspiration!

Garden of Hope
January 2005

Hope is the great gift of a loving God.  For people of faith, hope is symbolized in the dawning of each day, the assurance that God's love is new every morning.  Hope lights our spirit in the midst of despair; it is the life-force that "through the green stem drives the flower," it keeps a divine vision alive in the hearts of the weak and needy.

In The Garden of Hope,  second in my Gardens of Light collection, I celebrate the bountiful blessing that is a hopeful spirit.  Radiance bathes a garden in the woods, pouring down in a flood of light upon an ancient stone urn that is, in its carvings, a vessel of hope.

The deeply mysterious relationship between hope an sacrifice is expressed in the symbolism of the urn.  Central is the Roman cross, bearing the inscription INRI - Latin for Jesus of Nazareth, King of the Jews - which was carved above the original cross by Pilate.

On the left arm of the cross is the serene visage of Mary, mother  of God.  And on the right, Jesus himself, in his gentle countenance, confers his blessing on the garden and its visitors.  A magnificent spray of flowers burst forth from the urn in a sPleindid celebration of the good news.  Surely, The Garden of Hope is a garden lavish with new beginnings.

Symbols of Freedom
December 2004

Like Norman Rockwell's famed “Four Freedoms”, my Symbols of Freedom celebrates foundational American values. The Department of Agriculture tower at the left symbolizes the Freedom from Want. The national Christmas tree expresses the pageantry of the holidays, its glowing lights affirming the hope that burns in every heart through our individual Freedom of Religion. The severe obelisk of the Washington Monument represents for me the founding of our republic which provided Freedom from Fear by placing government on the side of the people. Finally, the cupola of the Jefferson Memorial symbolizes our founding father's steadfast commitment to Free Speech. Illuminating these powerful symbols and touching the modest crowd is the glorious light of God's golden sunset. This painting will be presented to the First Family at the lighting of the National Christmas Tree during the annual Christmas Pageant of Peace celebration in December.

The Night Before Christmas
November, 2004

The Night Before Christmas revisits the stately mansion of Victorian Garden II, while the change of season works a dramatic transformation of the scene. Snow shrouds the foliage, replacing the gemlike dazzle of flowers in the earlier piece with a tapestry woven in shades of white. The lamp is festooned with wreath and bow, a sled stands ready-to-ride on the picke fence, a jaunty snowman greets guests.

Dogwood Chapel
October, 2004
There are places where the bounty of God's creation shines forth with such radiance that the humble heart is moved to express its gratitude in prayer. Dogwood Chapel portrays just such a spiritual jewel within a setting of breathtaking natural beauty. A graceful footpath leads us to the door of a modest chapel, lodged within the shade of an overarching, flowering dogwood tree. Whether or not we know the legend of the dogwood, we cannot help but recognize that this tree with its lavish white blossoms is a sign of God's sheltering grace, and His abiding gift of love.

Chicago Winter at the Water Tower
September 2004

Chicago's 'Water Tower' looms like a nostalgic monument from an ancient age. Indeed, the limestone and concrete tower, built in 1869, to resemble a Gothic castle from a much more distant time, is one of the very few standing survivors of the great Chicago fire.

In my painting, quaint hansom cabs convey tourists to and fro, and crowds of shoppers and celebrants fill the streets. It's winter in the city; for the visitor, winter is a romantic season I Chicago, softening the city's hard lines with its shimmering light.

Pacific Nocturne
August, 2004

I painted Pacific Nocturne on the occasion of my second wedding anniversary, when Nanette and I re-visited our honeymoon hideaway. The romantic seascape displays my growing passion for capturing effects of light.

Surf bursts in an explosion of brilliant light against the massive coastal rock. The luminous translucence of the aqua wave shimmers with an internal fire. Sand gleams golden through the liquid skin of the sea.

For many years, Pacific Nocturne hung in my own home as a private treasure – a radiant memory of my early years of marriage. Now, for the first time, I share it with my collectors.

Charleston, Sunset on Rainbow Row
July 2004

The Kinkade family delights in travel. One of the recurring discoveries is Charleston, South Carolina, where the heart of the Old South lives on. The feeling that I get when I visit Charleston is nostalgic, romantic, as if I had somehow stepped back in time. So, as I worked on my studio treatment of "Charleston, Sunset on Rainbow Row", I've filled my streets with vintage cars and passersby wearing simple yet timeless garb. Step aboard the horse-drawn carriage for a leisurely visit to Rainbow Row!
-Thomas Kinkade