Artist - Thomas Draving
Discover the vibrant world of creativity through the lens of Dimensions in Watercolor -
where art and design come alive!
About The Artist
My Background
Thomas Draving studied mechanical design at Spring Garden College in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. In his 20s, he was a singer and songwriter. In his 30s, he attended the Stone Harbor School of Art to further develop his artistic skills. After moving to Florida in 1983, he joined the Gold Coast Watercolor Society and the Florida Watercolor Society, where he continued his studies and growth as a watercolor artist.
My Medium
My watercolor paintings and landscapes are distinguished by their vibrant color, strong design, and imaginative compositions. I draw inspiration from the beaches, seashores, boatyards, local wildlife, and scenic landscapes of Florida. The rich colors of the ocean, the lush variety of tropical plants and flowers, and the unique architecture of Florida’s coastal communities all influence my work in both art and design.
Each watercolor painting is personally conceived, designed, and painted by me, with an emphasis on creativity, color harmony, and composition. Most of my paintings measure 22" x 30", and a number of them have been sold to private collectors.
My Vision
My artistic vision reflects the way people experience and remember the world around them. Through my travels across the United States and beyond, I have gained inspiration from many remarkable places and landscapes. I have visited numerous national parks throughout the country and explored the East Coast from Massachusetts to the Florida Keys, as well as the West Coast from San Diego to San Francisco. Although I have traveled internationally, I feel most at home in the small beach towns along the East Coast.
The coastal environment continues to inspire my work and my understanding of what draws people to the sea. I appreciate the feeling of cool ocean air against warm sand, the sound of sails flapping on a summer beach day, and the sight of seagulls gliding effortlessly in the wind. There is also a sense of excitement and adventure in hearing a cruise ship’s horn as travelers begin their journey toward tropical islands and distant shores.
For many people, vacations to South Florida and the Caribbean represent relaxation, freedom, and cherished memories. Whether floating in the warm blue waters of the Eastern or Western Caribbean or enjoying the beauty of the coastline, these experiences provide a welcome escape from the pressures of daily life. My paintings seek to capture those moments of peace, joy, and reflection while celebrating the beauty of nature, coastal living, and the architectural character of seaside communities.
Showcasing art and design watercolor paintings & watercolor landscapes!
Thomas Draving is a resident of Hollywood and a graduate of AEI – The Artist as an Entrepreneur Institute. Throughout his artistic career, he has received numerous awards and recognitions for his watercolor paintings. His honors include an Honorable Mention from the Gold Coast Watercolor Society, Second Place in the Hollywood Crossings Pre-Building Condo Contest, First Place in the ArtServe Great Florida Bank Florida Landscapes Competition, and Fourth Place in the Light, Space & Time Online Art Gallery Seascapes Art Competition.
In addition to his artistic accomplishments, Thomas earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Hospitality Management from Nova Southeastern University. He also spent more than 20 years working in food and beverage operations at hotels near the Port Everglades cruise port in Fort Lauderdale.