Born J. Thomas Soltesz, Western Pennsylvania

Graduated High School 1972. Moved to Florida to paint billboards.

In 1974 J. Thomas ("Tom") Soltesz moved to Denver and enrolled in the Colorado Institute of Art.

In 1976 Tom moved to the south pacific where he worked as a graphic designer for five years working in the Philippines, Hong Kong, and Papua New Guinea.

n 1983 Tom returned to the U. S. where he enrolled in the Academy of Art College in San Francisco. He worked as a freelance Illustrator for most of the 80s.

In the early 90s, Soltesz discovered the early California landscape artists, who inspired him to expand his conceptualization and painting technique.  An Artist Member of the California Art Club, and a founding member of the BayWood Artists, Tom has won numerous awards in high-level Plein air competitions. He is currently represented by prestigious galleries throughout California and is collected by enthusiasts and connoisseurs of fine art worldwide. Tom also teaches his technique in workshops and gives painting demonstrations and lectures to Art organizations.