Art for the Earth

Nigel Enoch hopes his art makes people think. “For me, art is about focusing on what you’re passionate about and sharing that message,” says Nigel, 17, a senior at Davidson Fine Arts Magnet School in Augusta, Georgia. “When people get what you’re saying, it’s thrilling.” Nigel’s dream career would combine photography and law.

How did you create your work?

First, I sketched out my concept on paper. Then I designed all the elements using a program called Illustrator. I started with the hourglass, focusing on the color and texture of the glass. Then I made the Earth, the oil, and finally the refinery, which was the most challenging. I positioned each element where I wanted it and adjusted the scale to make sure everything fit together. 

What was the most challenging part of creating this work?

The most challenging part was making sure every detail, including the shadows and highlights, looked realistic and three-dimensional. Making sure everything was the right scale was tricky too.

What does this project mean to you?

I care about the environment, so it meant a lot to know I can get my message out to the world. Instead of making an angry Facebook post, I can create an image or a design and let the viewer do the thinking for him- or herself.

Do you have any advice for aspiring artists like yourself?

Don’t be scared to create art about things you are passionate about. Even if the topic is controversial, it will generate your best work. Do it anyway.

Nigel won a Gold Medal for his design in the 2016 Scholastic Art & Writing Awards.

To find out more about this program, visit artandwriting.org.