In conversation with... Dan Hobday

What led you to become an artist?

I’ve been drawing and creating art since I could hold a pencil. Over time, it just clicked that this was my thing. I love expressing ideas, emotions, and stories in visual form there's just something powerful about it.

 

Your work is known for its minimalist and abstract aesthetic—what draws you to this style?

Minimalism and abstraction let me focus on the essence of an idea. It's about stripping away distractions and letting the simplest shapes and colours speak for themselves. Plus, I find it really satisfying to create something impactful with less.

 

Many of your pieces have a calming, organic quality. What influences your choice of shapes and compositions?

Nature plays a big role—curves, smooth lines, and soft shapes are calming and remind me of the flow of the natural world. I like compositions that feel balanced and peaceful as if they could exist in harmony with any space.

You work across both digital and traditional mediums—how do you approach these different methods, and do you have a favourite?

Each medium has its own vibe. Digital work is precise and flexible, while traditional methods have a more hands-on, tactile feeling. Honestly, I like both, but if I had to choose, there's something special about working with physical materials like paint and paper.

 

How does the natural world influence your art, and do you have a particular environment or landscape that inspires you most?

Nature is a huge inspiration—whether it’s the organic shapes of plants, the fluidity of water, or the textures in a landscape. I often find myself inspired by the quiet, subtle beauty of things like a quiet forest or a serene beach.

What’s your process like when starting a new piece? Do you plan compositions ahead of time, or is it more instinctual?

It’s a mix of both! I usually start with a loose idea or inspiration, but the rest unfolds as I work. I like to leave room for the piece to evolve organically—kind of like letting the art guide me.

 

Many of your works have a timeless feel. Are there specific artists or design movements that have shaped your approach?

Definitely. I’ve been influenced by the clean lines of modernism, the simplicity of Scandinavian design, and the organic forms of artists like Ellsworth Kelly and Agnes Martin. These movements and artists have shown me the beauty of less is more.

Your pieces are incredibly versatile and work across different interiors. Do you create with a particular space in mind, or is it more about the emotion behind the work?

It’s mostly about the feeling. I like my pieces to fit into different spaces, whether it's a cozy living room or a sleek office. I create based on the emotion I want to convey, hoping it resonates wherever it lands.

 

As an artist, how do you balance creating personal work with the commercial side of selling art?

It’s a fine balance. I make sure to stay true to my vision while also being mindful of what people connect with. Commercial success is great, but I never want to lose the passion or authenticity of creating for myself.

What advice would you give to emerging artists trying to develop their own unique style?

Experiment, don’t rush it, and trust your gut. Your style will evolve over time—just keep creating and learning from every piece. Also, don’t be afraid to break the rules—some of the best stuff comes from doing things differently.