Tim McCarthy?s career in art began to take shape at the University of Illinois where he earned his Bachelors' degree of Fine Arts in Painting in 1989. His first teacher, however, was his mother, who is also an artist. His first commercial art experiences were commissioned portraits of the U of I sororities. This was his initial thrust into portrait commissions. After graduation, Tim went to work for an art gallery in downtown Chicago. From this experience Tim realized his focus should be on selling his own artwork. Within months, Tim began doing freelance artwork for the Southtown Economist and the Beverly Review newspapers as well as continuing with his portraits. In 1995 Tim took his experience and ventured full-time into the freelance arena where he has built up his name and clientele. From 1994 through 1996, Tim?s studio was located inside the Heritage Gallery, where he worked as understudy to renowned artist, Jack Simmerling. In 1996, Tim became a Chicago Firefighter and is a member of Truck Company 41 on Chicago?s South Side. Some highlights of his recent work include a portrait of Cardinal Joseph Bernardin, which is part of the Loyola Medical Centers permanent art collection. This painting was featured on the Channel 7 News in a story by Harry Porterfield. Other highlights include renderings of Northwestern University?s Dyche Stadium, the Norris University Center, The O?Hare Hilton and commissions of Hoosier Boys Town, Marion Catholic High School, Leo High School, St. Rita High School and Mount Carmel High School. He also takes time to paint during family trips around the country that have included Pemiquid Bay ? Maine, Sedona, Arizona, Yosemite National Park in California and many more. Tim works mainly in watercolor using deep colors not ordinarily seen in this media. Visit our website to start browsing the online gallery or stop in today! Follow us on Facebook too! Search McCarthy Fine Art & Design to join out page and hear more about our speci