One area of woodturning that' always facinated me is segmented forms.  There's so much room for experimentation and the best part is the wood is usually free.  At least if you're not too picky.  Seems I've got a ton of oak cutoffs that other folks have given me, and I don't even like oak!  Sigh.  How come nobody every has a box full of rosewood cutoffs they're looking to get rid of ?
No matter.  I like clean and simple and that's a good place to start with segment work.  More complex designs can be added as skills are developed.  One thing I've never liked much tho is tossing every type of wood in to a pile and turning it.  Lotsa color and contrasting grain doesn't make a pretty bowl in my eyes.   Your milage may vary.