Born in Rockport, MA, T. M. Nicholas grew up admiring the rugged beauty of the northeast coastline of the United States. He quickly grew to appreciate the unique landscapes of coastal New England.
His father, esteemed painter Tom Nicholas, offered advice to help T. M. develop his own individualistic style and become the plein air painter in oils that he is today. He is considered one of the most important painters of the Cape Ann School working today.
Besides his father, T. M. studied under John Terelak at the Gloucester Academy of Fine Arts. He also studied part-time under Boston area artist George Gabin at Monserrat School of Art, with emphasis on realistic paintings and drawing.
A winner of many awards since 1982, T. M. Nicholas is a member of Rockport Art Association, Guild of Boston Artists, Whiskey Painters of America, Hudson Valley Artists, Allied Artists of America, Academic Artists, American Artists Professional League, New England Watercolor Society, and the North Shore Arts Association. His paintings are in many museum and private collections, including the Peabody Essex Museum and the Cape Ann Historical Museum.