Tony Forrest was born in Sutton Coldfield in 1961. After leaving school he studied technical illustration in Cornwall and was then employed in Germany, illustrating manuals. Two years later Tony returned to Britain and began work in an Art Gallery, producing local scenes. Finding his creativity stifled, Tony set up his own business in commercial illustration. Although successful he still yearned to paint more freely and in particular, to express through his work, his absolute fascination with wildlife. In 1988 Tony began to paint professionally, producing the first of the moving, atmospheric images he is now so widely known. Respect and admiration for his work grew rapidly. His very first exhibition enabled him to visit Africa and paint on location, whilst at the same time raising vital funds for conservation causes. To travel to the animals natural habitat is an essential element of Tony's work. "To paint light and colour accurately, it must be done from life", he says. Tony returns to Africa frequently, "these trips bring a whole wealth of new inspiration and excitement with memories which still fire my imagination today. I hope my art stirs peoples emotions." In 1991 the Army Air Corps commissioned Tony to produce an action painting of their Lynx helicopters on location in Germany. He was flown out to Souest for a week as a guest of 3 Regiment AAC. The painting which resulted from this research now hangs in the officers mess in Middle Wallop. The art world continues to pay increasing attention to Tony Forrest. Keen collectors await his latest work, assured of superb quality and lasting enjoyment.