Meet Ryan Nightingale | Artist and Author

We had the good fortune of connecting with Ryan Nightingale and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Ryan, why did you pursue a creative career?
I actually used to be a neuroscientist. Then I was diagnosed with severe fibromyalgia and couldn’t work in the labs anymore. I fell into a deep depression after, with my days filled with brooding and cynicism. Then I decided I had the extra time and had always wanted to paint; so, why not start to learn? After that, painting became my world, my lifeline. Soon I found myself having a new reason for getting up, and a purpose once more. Art soon became the sole thing I wanted to do with my time, and I began to even dream of painting. Thus, I decided that, despite the risks of becoming a starving artist, I had to pursue what had become my reason for living. If i didn’t, I knew I’d always be wondering “What if?”.

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
I honestly am not sure what sets me apart from others. From the get go, I was shocked by the reception my art received, even before going to art school. The fact I have the small fan base I do never ceases to astound me, as I never considered my work overly noteworthy. I faced many challenges during the start, and still do. Art is always a tough sell, and they call it a starving artist for a reason. There have been times when I had to decide whether to spend my last buck on paint, or household necessities like coffee filters. However, my pure love for painting and creating pushed me forward through these tough times. As for lessons, I’ve learned that you can’t judge yourself. Often times we are our own worst critic, whether this be in regard to art or even life in general. We are always tough on ourselves, but sometimes the things we are most critical of are the things that others love the most. If I could introduce my brand to the world, I’d say my art comes with purpose. Whether that be to bring awareness to societal issues like abuse, as done through my digital art and publications. Or even just a nice little landscape you can escape to where there aren’t the various tragedies of life and where things go right.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
I will be fully honest, I don’t get out much. In fact, I’m a downright hermit and rarely ever leave the house except for necessities. I don’t really eat out (can’t afford to), I don’t go exploring or hiking due to my physical disability, I don’t drink so never frequent bars or clubs. I can’t really afford to go to museums or shows. Furthermore, I also am incredibly introverted and don’t know many people to go with in the first place. Thus, I spend most of my time practicing art, working on my shop, or writing. This is what I do from the moment I wake up until an hour before bed. So, any friend visiting would probably have a fairly boring time with me to be honest.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
My family, for having always supported me in my aspirations and dreams.

Website: https://ryannightingale.weebly.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/quietisolation73/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ryan.nightingale.104