T Allom (Born 1804) was born in Lambeth. He was an architect, topographical illustrator and an artist. In his lifetime, he designed many Victorian churches. Allom was a founding member of the Royal Institute of British Architects. He designed many buildings and also worked on numerous projects with Sir Charles Barry, the most notable being the Houses of Parliament. Allom is also known for many other topographical works, including the Scenery of the Seven Churches of Asia Minor and Constantinople, and China Illustrated which was published in 1845. Allom believed that art can stir past emotional experiences and our unconscious feelings, while also inspiring cultural integrity and self-awareness. At the age of 15 years, he was apprenticed to architect Goodwin Francis for whom he worked for 7 years, after which he joined the Royal Academy School for his studies.
Because of the brilliant manner in which he visualized his scenes and objects, the artist was recognized as one of the leading contributors to the art of his century. Allom was the son of a coachman from Suffolk. In 1824 and 1827 His designs for churches were shown at exhibitions and they aroused considerable interest. Many new artists look upon his art as a source of inspiration. He has had a life long ambition to be a professional artist, and has directed all his energy towards achieving this dream. He has managed to achieve this dream in such a manner that he has launched an international market for his originals and reproductions.
