Art Director & Jewelry Designer Thomas ‘Lynn’ Baker Passes

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Thomas “Lynn” Baker. Photo: Kevin Schlatt Photography

Art director, image consultant and jewelry designer Thomas “Lynn” Baker passed away peacefully at his home in Tijeras, New Mexico on Dec. 3 of Huntington’s Disease. He was 71.

Baker exhibited a talent and passion for art at an early age. A Frankfurt, Kentucky native, he studied at Western Kentucky University where he received Bachelor and Master of Arts Degrees with emphasis in weaving and art education. He continued with postgraduate study in Mexico and Venezuela, where he was greatly influenced by indigenous design.

During his two decades in the entertainment industry in Nashville, Baker wore many hats including in wardrobe design, video production, event planning, image consulting, interior design, set design and art direction. He was also an award-winning jewelry and costume designer who specialized in unique creations for entertainers and celebrities. Baker’s jewelry was featured on the red carpet at countless award shows, in music videos, on album covers and in magazines. His clients included Rosanne Cash, Clint Black, Billy Ray Cyrus, Dixie Chicks, The Judds, Loretta Lynn, Lee Roy Parnell, Doug Stone, Shania Twain, Lee Ann Womack, Tammy Wynette, Trace Adkins, Alan Jackson, Brooks & Dunn and Diamond Rio.

Baker won nine Country Music Association/Grand Ole Opry awards for art direction and his costumes are in the Country Music Hall of Fame collection. He designed glamorous country parties, including the CMA’s post-award party. He worked as a video art director, styled and made wardrobe for various artists, and built custom artist booths for CMA Music Fest. In addition, Baker designed exhibitions for the Tennessee State Museum and the T. J. Martell Foundation. He was also an avid balloonist who served as event coordinator for the Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta.

Baker is survived by his stepmother Mary Baker of Harrodsburg, Kentucky.

Lorie Hollabaugh
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