Painter Thomas Kinkade Dies at 54

According to a report in the Associated Press, a spokesperson for American artist Thomas Kinkade, best known for his fantastically rendered scenes and self-described "painter of light," said that the artist died suddenly in his California home on Friday night. He was 54.

While Kinkade’s work divides the art community, his paintings and keepsakes items decorated with his artwork earn millions of dollars every year.

"Thom provided a wonderful life for his family," his wife reportedly said in a statement. "We are shocked and saddened by his death."

The . New owners recently took over the gallery on Main Street who had faith that the prime location and their rich stock of Kinkade prints would make for a successful combination.

At the end of last year the to concentrate on other businesses but the gallery reopened early in 2012.

According to current gallery owner Sal Catalfumo, it’s unusual of for one artist to sustain the type of following and retail success that Kinkade has had over the years. Much of his success came from marrying his own brand to other major brands like Disney Elvis, NASCAR and New York Yankees.

Reports state that Kinkade died of natural causes.