Toni Goffe studied painting, illustration and (secretly) double bass at Southampton College of Art in Hampshire between 1952-1956, gaining a National Diploma in Design. On completing the course, he moved to London where he freelanced as an illustrator and studied painting with a number of private tutors. He supported this by playing double bass professionally in many notable London jazz bands. During this period, Toni started illustrating children's books on a freelance basis. After a move to Boston USA to run The John Stobart Gallery in 1982 for three years Toni and his family returned to Hampshire to continue painting here. Strangely an offer to become chairman of a newly formed Hampshire Artists Co-Operative happened at the same gallery as Jill and Toni had run in the 70's The Selborne Gallery where Toni is now Chairman. After 7 years the group left the gallery and are now traveling and exhibiting in the Hampshire area with an occasional exhibition in London.