Creative educator & Illustrator
Helping working illustrators bridge the gap between their unique artistic voice and high-value, client-focused work
For over a decade, Tom Froese has built a vibrant commercial illustration practice, creating lively maps, characters, and textured scenes for brands like Airbnb, Yahoo!, GQ France, and The Wall Street Journal. But alongside his client work, Tom has found a deep passion for teaching.
Recognized as a Top Teacher on Skillshare, Tom has guided nearly 160,000 students through his approach to commercial illustration. Whether leading live workshops at events like ICON and DesignThinkers or mentoring working freelancers, his mission is simple: to help illustrators stop guessing and start building smart, strategic, and creatively fulfilling careers.
Tom lives, works and plays in Yarrow, British Columbia with his wife and two daughters. In his time off, he loves to get outside and run.
My mission is to help commercial illustrators become sharper problem solvers as well as stronger artists—finding their unique creative voice within their client-driven work.
While technique and theory are inseparable, I don't teach a single "correct" style. Instead, I teach mental models and strategic frameworks that make abstract ideas concrete and actionable.
We tackle creative goals step by step, starting with understanding who you are, how you think, and what unique perspective you bring to the brief.
The goal of my classes isn't for you to copy my process, but to surprise yourself with what you can accomplish when given the right tools and guidance.
As a teacher of applied art, I'm only as good as my real-world experience. My theory and my practice go hand-in-hand.
FastCo
Airbnb
Yahoo!
GQ France
The Wall Street Journal
Harvard Business Review
Condé Nast
TIME Magazine
Communication Arts Illustration Annual
World Illustration Awards (Shortlist)
3x3 Professional Show
Communication Arts Design Annual
BC Beer Awards
Top Teacher and multi-Staff Pick earner on Skillshare
Talks and workshops for creative audiences across North America, covering commercial illustration, creative process, and building a sustainable illustration practice, including:
ICON
Creative Mornings
DesignThinkers
Skillshare HQ