Dan Hobday, an artist whose work embodies the beauty of minimalism and the power of simplicity. Based in the UK, Dan creates pieces that feel effortlessly sophisticated, blending organic forms with clean lines and muted tones. His work ranges from abstract compositions to coastal-inspired landscapes, all with a refined, contemporary aesthetic.

Written by: Nicholas de Klee - Co-Founder at GoodMood Prints

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 and geometric forms of artists like Ben Nicholson and William Scott. These movements and artists have shown me the beauty of less is more.

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.

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 cosy 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 ensure that I stay true to my vision while also being mindful of what resonates with people. 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.