Meet Ryan Nightingale of Tucson

Today we’d like to introduce you to Ryan Nightingale.

Hi Ryan, so excited to have you with us today. What can you tell us about your story?
I was initially a neuroscientist, believe it or not. Unfortunately, though, I ended up getting diagnosed with a debilitating case of Fibromyalgia that left me bed-bound. I needed to stay busy during this time, so I decided to teach myself to paint as I had always wanted to learn. I quickly discovered I had a deep passion for it, and it gave me a purpose again. A lot of this early work focused on abuse, domestic violence, and illness. Eventually, I could function again and got back on my feet. Seeking to return to the workforce, I decided to take a leap of faith and enroll in an art degree at Pima Community College. It was here that I truly learned to draw and paint. I’m now in my final semester and about to get going on my art career.

Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not, what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
It has not been a smooth road in the least. Art is not cheap, and I’ve sacrificed a lot financially to support my art degree and work. Sometimes, I’ve had to choose between paying for things like Hulu or getting more paint and art supplies. Furthermore, my physical illness has made attending class difficult at times, not to mention difficult to get up and paint. However, I think I’ve managed to overcome these hurdles nonetheless.

Thanks – so, what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
When I first started creating art, I did a lot of work bringing awareness to abuse, domestic violence, and illness. Since then, I’ve realized that plenty of people are doing this. Moreover, our world is full of chaos, pain, and suffering. So, I’ve since aimed to give people an escape from such—an escape to a better world with no inflation, no war, and no stress. A world where things go right and peace is to be had. Whether via a landscape with mountains and lakes or a simple still life with fruit and flowers.

Regarding mediums, I primarily work with charcoal, oil, and watercolor. These are my go-to and what I use the most. I’m most proud of my oil work as it can be a complex medium, but it’s my favorite. Further, some of my favorite pieces have been done in oils.

Do you have recommendations for books, apps, blogs, etc?
I first learned to paint via Bob Ross and his videos. These were a precious resource and influenced my landscape pieces. I also found Jazza and his YouTube channel handy and inspiring resources. I cannot stress more how much Pima Community College and my professors have influenced my work. I’ve learned more than I ever could on my own, and my work has flourished under the guidance of their team of professors. In particular, I would like to give special thanks to Michael Noland and Matthias Duwel. Both have been hugely helpful, and I owe a lot to them and their teachings.

Contact Info:

• Website: ryannightingale.weebly.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/quietisolation73/?next=%2F
• Other: https://www.threads.net/@quietisolation73