Terry Gardner began his career in St. Louis balancing commercial and fine art. Early western films and television deeply influenced his interest in the American West. He moved to Colorado early in his career and eventually he parted from advertising to pursue painting full time. Gardner credits his growth as an artist, more than college or the commercial art industry, to Quang Ho and Mark Daily. He studied with both of these accomplished artists at the Art Students League of Denver. Gardner's compositions are born from his surroundings but evolve in his studio to a place that is deeper, where mystery and contemplation are nurtured. His paintings are expressive and ethereal with color selections intended to encourage dialogue.
Gardner has exhibited work throughout the west for 20 years. In 2019 he was the featured artist at the Coors National Western Art Exhibit in Denver. He has participated in this event for eighteen consecutive years. His work has been featured by the Colorado Cattlemen's Agricutlural Land Trust, raising awareness and support for conserving Colorado's western heritage. His paintings are in collections throughout the United States and Europe. He currently lives and works in Morrison, Colorado.