Tom Robinson became an artist at the age of 27, upon being discharged from the navy. He studied design at Ohio State University.
Using wood, watercolors, oil, acrylic, glass, and industrial components such as aircraft cable and clamps, Robinson explores art forms such as figure drawing, sculpture, furniture design, light fixtures, and construction in depth. His dominating influences are Bauhaus, Alberto Giacometti, Joseph Cornell, Horst Janssen, Art Moderne, and William Kentridge.
In collaboration with others he helped to establish the Chicago Artists Month, an event that explores the different communities in Chicago and provides inspiration for working artists across the city. His work has been exhibited across Chicago.