Nigel Goodwin in West Midlands, England is an artist, poet and songwriter who specializes in oil and watercolor painting and has recently started using acrylic as well. His watercolor paintings are usually of birds and flowers; whilst in oil he tends to paint landscapes, seascapes, abstracts and portraits.  

I first came into contact with Nigel on A Singular Creation (ASC) where he has been a moderator since the end of January 2013.  He has said, "To be honest I actually enjoy moderating for ASC more now than actual painting! I really enjoy admiring and critiquing the fabulous artworks of others.  There are a lot of great artists on ASC." Nigel has been painting for over ten years and has chosen to share some of his artistic story with us here.

Tell me about your first experience painting:

My first painting was a watercolour for my brother David.  It is of a par three golf hole in Algarve, Portugal.  I painted it in February 2003 and he still has it framed on his bedroom wall!  It was a daunting experience and it is probably one of my most detailed artworks.

What initially sparked your interest in creating art?

About ten years ago me and some church friends were sitting around chatting at the Church Open Door coffee morning when the subject came up about art.  I became really interested in the subject and decided to buy myself some basic watercolours and paper from a budget art shop.  I only spent a little because I did not know whether I would like it or even be very good at it.  Lo' and behold, my watercolour painting, the golf par three for my brother, was my first artwork creation!  After that I was hooked so to speak and began sketching and painting more watercolours.  So, basically, it was a church conversation that started off my creativity!  Thanks be to God!

What makes oil painting your preferred medium?

I especially love painting in oil. Oil is a very forgiving medium.  I can make a mistake and quickly rectify it by moving the wet paint about or painting on top of existing colour. Also, I would call myself a traditionalist as I really enjoy the 'feeling' of using oil... it makes me feel special! 

What things inspire you to create art?

How to get started creating your own abstract art work with these 4 basic tips. The inherent simplicity is what makes these tips as opposed to rules. As an abstract artist you can create whatever you like, there are no guidelines to follow. As the painting composition should be liberal, in abstract art there is no right or wrong. 

Rainbow Hatching, psychedelic doodle © Sarah Klockars-Clauser 

1. Prepare to create your art work with a subject or theme in mind. Even though this is abstract art, it is important for the artist to have a clear idea of what the finished piece will mean to them personally. You can start out with a literal object portrayal and then work on blurring the vision of that object. Or, you can create an abstract concept from the beginning and work towards making a slightly more obvious representation. The first step is to know the general direction so you have a true starting point.

2. When it comes to supplies used, the decision is also completely up to you. You may choose to paint in vibrant colors or without color altogether. When first beginning as a painter a modest paint set and using paper is a good way to start without having to invest much money. If you choose to embrace this endeavor further, having higher quality and more varied selection of paints and brushes, perhaps even committing to use of canvas or other more expensive supplies would then be sensible.


3. The technique in creating an abstract painting is generally spontaneous and natural as opposed to mechanical. Freehand is the typical fashion of an abstract painter. If you choose to start out with a sketched foundation, try not to over-detail or create a drawing that represents the subject too methodically. Remember if you draw first it is only a framework and not to be the actual artwork itself. 

4. Relax and have fun - the ultimate goal in artistic expression is to let the imagination loose and create a work of art that you feel connected to and enjoy. The act of creating in abstract may provide an outlet for feelings that are indescribable in words. Also the sense of achievement in producing your very own painted artwork, customized to your own sensitivities is a gift in itself.

Since this is painting in abstract, keep in mind everyone will likely see something different in the painting. Try not to take this as criticism or a challenge to your intended subject matter. This is actually part of the value in abstract where it is many things to many people. As an artist you will develop your own style and with it convey your own perspectives with abstract imagery. If you find yourself looking for inspiration, further reading Abstract Painting Ideas may help you along.