Thommy Birk CHH Artist of the Month

TORRINGTON — The Charlotte Hungerford Hospital Auxiliary is featuring the artwork and drawings of Thommy Birk now through early June 2018 in the hospital’s main lobby hallway, 540 Litchfield St.

The public is invited to view and buy the works during regular visiting hours as part of the Auxiliary’s ongoing “Artist of the Month” program. A portion of the proceeds from sales of the artwork support the CHH Auxiliary and Charlotte Hungerford Hospital according to a press release from the hospital.

Thommy Birk grew up in Litchfield, and knew he had the talent of painting and drawing at a very young age. He was influenced by many instructors beginning in grammar school and was directed in fine art and design by Bob Dublac at Litchfield High School. Thommy was also influenced by the art of Winslow Homer and Andrew Wyeth and took up working in watercolor. He also attended the Art Institute of Boston in 1980 where he continued fine art and illustration.

Thommy created a website and in 2016 started working at Mindscape Industries where he served as a job coach for clients with traumatic brain injury. He now resides in Torrington where he is available to do artwork such as portraits, landscapes or graphic illustrations. His works are also available to view on his website, ThommyArtist.com, and through Google, Twitter, Instagram and Facebook.

The Auxiliary’s “Artist of the Month” program has been featuring paintings, photographs, and artwork each month from local artists for over 25 years. Their more than 200 member supporters assist in raising money for the hospital through dues, donations, volunteering at the gift shop, and a variety of events including an annual fall fashion show and luncheon.

CHH / Contributed photo A work by CHH Artist of the Month Thommy Birk.