Hydrogeology is not a simple discipline, .. It's full of variables that are always changing.
I don't think it's necessary for artists to have any formal training in painting or art history, but I do think it's essential to continually experiment with different subject matter, types of paint and methods of painting.
No matter what medium I'm using, or what subject I'm painting, I do retain a fairly set approach to painting.
After 20 years of painting wildlife subjects in acrylic, I felt the need for a change and began to explore portraiture and landscape in oils.