Plein Air Painting in Prospect Park, Brooklyn.


Art, in one form or another, has been part of Nigel Morgan’s life since the age of five. His earliest art inspirations were the few, but impactful illustrations in the Encyclopedia Britannica. Although most of the images were black and white at that time, the colored sections, especially those that depicted wildlife, were captivating. As a young novice developing his craft, Trinidadian artist David Moore also inspired Nigel. Moore’s mindfulness in depicting the old ways of Caribbean life were unlike anything Nigel had seen. Soon, he began to follow the works of Norman Rockwell, Thomas Kinkade, Vincent Van Gogh, and William Steig.

As a Communication Design & Illustration major at Pratt Institute in Brooklyn, NY, Nigel aspired to become a wildlife illustrator, but teaching began to weave its way into his life, as he was often approached by onlookers while painting in the parks, cafés, and hang-out places throughout Brooklyn. The questions, “Do you teach art? Do you teach kids?” were often asked of him, and it was in the main seating area of the Brooklyn Public Library’s Central Branch that the opportunity to teach youth, adults and older adults was presented to him.

Teaching art is something that Nigel has grown increasingly enthusiastic about. Grateful for the influence and wisdom imparted by the many instructors in his life, Nigel sees it as a privilege to give back to the community in which he lives and was educated.


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In September of 2023, I suffered a stroke that kept me in the hospital for nearly two months. Yet even in that valley, the Lord was merciful to me. The stroke affected my right side, but in His providence, I am left-handed. What (by the enemy's design) would have taken me to a really dark place instead became a reminder—a tender but sobering glimpse into the brevity and fragility of life. Moments like these have a way of stripping away distractions and showing us what truly matters.

That experience awakened something deep within me. If I am going to fulfill what I believe God has called me to do, I cannot wait for a “better time” or a “more convenient season.” The time is now. Life is too short, and God’s purposes are too precious to delay. I must use whatever gifts He has placed in my hands—however small or simple they may seem—to serve others, to strengthen those around me, and to honor the One who preserved my life.