Terry was originally born in Northern England, always having an interest in art and illustration, however, he pursed an education in the classics and archaeology rather than art. Later pursuing studies in the field of science obtaining a PhD in astrophysics.

However, on retiring to Cape Breton, Canada, he rekindled his interest in art, as a self taught artist and illustrator he experiments with different techniques, striving for a variety of results, his inspiration often comes from nature.