Everyone tells us that art isn’t good for us. That’s because, most of them are incapable of following their own dreams, due to fear or some other force. They don’t understand the power of ART. It’s innate. Loved this.

Creation is the affirmation of life. Whether you succeed or not, the reward is being alive.

I would have watched a full 2-hour version of this....thank you.

a lot of what he says resonates with me, too. i started with music a little earlier than tom-at 23-but i have had a constant battle to keep working on my art, suffering as i do from severe mental illness and chronic fatigue. at 44, i am only just about to finish my first album. those voices in the middle of the night are real. i keep expecting this era to offer up a whole slew of artists who started much later. there must be a ton of us. hopefully stories like this help provide some of the courage needed to take up the banner.

This came up in my feed as well this evening. Wow, I can so relate. I also picked up a brush for the first time at 44. Those voices in your head that you were referring to, the ones that leave you questioning why we do this…… they’re real. I had hit a wall and needed your message tonight. Thank you for the inspiration. Your work is incredible. As you can tell from all the comments, your message was part of our path and we are all grateful. Onward.

“Art is always on my mind” - Tom! This is what lives in my soul. I’m glad you’re well and pursuing your dream!

Tom, thank you for this inspiring video. I'm 43 and been an artist my whole life. I recently quit my day job a month ago to pursue art full time. Taking that step was scary. But I couldn't go on living with the idea that I'd regret not going for it. This past month has been incredible. The thought of knowing I work for myself. Not having to clock in and work for someone else. The freedom of making my own schedule. I've gotten more work done in 4 weeks than in the last year. I hope more artists and creative people can find it in themselves to make a plan and set forth working for themselves. And share their gifts with the world. Cheers sir.

Thank you for this, my creative friend. I’m about to go on this same journey myself (as a 42 yr old). Out with the corporate, in with the creative! I wish you all the best on this creative path!

I’m 46… maybe it’s not too late!

WOW - I am very inspired by this video thank you for sharing. I also noticed he had the verse 1 Peter 4 10-11 10 Each of you should use whatever gift you have received to serve others, as faithful stewards of God’s grace in its various forms. 11 If anyone speaks, they should do so as one who speaks the very words of God. If anyone serves, they should do so with the strength God provides, so that in all things God may be praised through Jesus Christ.

wow. what a great video to watch the morning of my 44th Birthday. Soli Deo Gloria

I can't even begin to tell you how serendipitous it is to have this video recommended to me. This gives me so much more hope that I'm doing the right thing by going for what I love to do. It's a hard battle, but if it's well-fought, you won't regret the battles. Thank you.

Thank you Tom for sharing your story. You're one more person I get to add to my list of people who have inspired me during this 'midjourney'... and thanks Soul Original Media for capturing Tom's story so beautifully.

This video gives me hope ❤ Great documentary guys

This is beautiful and I think more of us (artists in/entering midlife) need to see this.

It has been a year since I left my highly paid career in IT. My heart began to fail due to years of stress and corporate bullying. 💔❤‍🩹Because of my job, I lost friends, relationships, health, and almost my life. 😔 I haven’t been on a date for 4 years (I am not ugly at all). Time flies behind the computer screen, and no one can give it back to you. As a 36-year-old woman, I am starting from scratch as a professional artist. 😶‍🌫I am scared, but on the other hand, I don’t have much to lose. And for everyone who fears competition - be authentic and have your own style, then you are safe. Remember, authenticity and uniqueness are powerful assets. Best of luck on your journey! 🎨✨

"You can’t be an artist, its too competitive. You’ll never make it, be an engineer, make your $30,000 a year." OMG his dad sounds just like my inner dialogue.

Thank you so much. I needed this from the Universe.

Love this! Such great inspiration. Thank you

This is like… a perfect story…. Thanks…

Thanks for sharing your story! This is awesome!

Beautiful film, great job

Amazing video! Have followed your work for awhile and I love your style. It gives a unique look to your Disney pieces and that is so cool

Thanks for sharing what our hearts are saying. ❤ Inspiring!

Great story! Thanks

Such an inspirational mini documentary, well done. Glad you're still with us Tom, the world's a brighter and better place for it. Stunning artwork.

This is amazing, thank you!

very special, thank you for making and sharing

love this! thanks for inspiring me

Supercool. Love the Mary Blair piece too. Peace

dude does not look late 50s, holy cow!

Thanks Brother Use it up!!

Needed this

Awesome and inspiring video!

Glad I watched this

Always make are for yourself...be true to your unique vision...love this!!!! thanks

This was an absolute joy to watch! Great video!

You rock, Tom! :)

I am so encouraged to watch this story. Thanks for sharing. Beautiful artwork!

Thank you, Tom. I may have needed that.

I feel like there is a part of the last message that was cut. Would have loved to hear the full quote.

This is awesome, thanks for posting. Very inspirational!

Great analogy/story he ended off with

I think every kid that was drawing non stop told their parents they wanted to be an artist. I was told artist only start to make money after they die. Im not an artist but I paint cars... I kick myself everyday for not pursing my passion. I watch these kids go on the computer and make layers on layers and I would love to learn how to do it but I have no idea how. It's tough with a family to make time for a hobby now. I give tom props for getting up early and painting but looking at his paintings i can see why he does it because they are amazing.

An inspiring watch

Congrats Tom 👏👏👏

Thank you.

💪🏿🔥🔥🔥🔥

Somewhat this reminds me of me...

Shit, youtube knows I'm old.

Why Disney?!?

So, you were hired by Disney, is that what you mean? Like a contractor?