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During a weekly trivia on Instagram, we discovered Ryan and his unique illustration style. Ryan's talent for storytelling through art instantly captivated us. Today, we are thrilled to feature Ryan as the first guest in our blog post.
Can you tell us a bit about yourself?
"I am first and foremost a thinker," says Ryan. "I write stories, poetry, and music, and I draw whenever words are not enough." Ryan's artistic repertoire spans various mediums, including oil paint, acrylic paint, watercolor, markers, ink, charcoal, pencils, pastels, digital art, and experimental techniques. Nature and animals inspire him, and he often finds solace strolling through the serene paths of the Etobicoke Creek.
What inspires you to pursue art?
Ryan recalls watching his mother draw characters as they enjoyed cartoons together, sparking his passion for illustration. His wide scope of interests, ranging from math and science to history and the natural world, informs his art. "I am always reading, studying, and observing; I find inspiration everywhere," he explains.
As an illustrator, how do you approach storytelling differently?
Ryan's approach involves deeply understanding his characters. He spends hours drawing them in various scenarios until he feels a profound connection. "Knowing who the characters are is crucial," Ryan emphasizes. "Once I am satisfied with their portrayal, I can imagine their story." The visual language of art, including light, tone, and color, allows him to convey emotions without relying solely on words.
What is your most memorable project from the past three years?
Ryan's most cherished project involves painting a portrait of Sammy, a rescued American bulldog mix with a troubled past. Despite being sweet and friendly towards people, Sammy had difficulties around other large dogs, and an unfortunate incident occurred one summer. As Sammy battled progressive cancer in her final week, Ryan received a heartfelt request from his former manager and friend to create a lasting tribute by painting her portrait. This project holds a special place in Ryan's heart as a tribute to a beloved dog who was misunderstood.
Which artwork is your personal favorite and why?
“I believe that behind every exceptional piece of art lies a compelling story.” If he were to choose one collection of work, it would be Bill Waterson's Calvin and Hobbes. The comic strip sparked his imagination as a child with its dynamic characters, expressive poses, and beautiful watercolor backgrounds. Ryan holds great admiration for Bill Waterson as a true artist who brought the captivating world of Calvin and Hobbes to life.
What does success and happiness mean to you as an artist?
"If you can love every piece you create, that is success," Ryan emphasizes. He recognizes the distinction between commissioned works and the pieces that emerge from deep within, eliciting an unabashed smile. "Success comes from an established career and a deep fondness for what you do. The greatest success is sharing your story with the world."
We were genuinely inspired by Ryan passion for art and his ability to breathe life into stories. This experience has ignited a sense of excitement as we continue to uncover the hidden talents within our community. The journey has only just begun, and we look forward to what lies ahead. Until next time.
To learn more about Ryan, you can reach him via email at r.c.thompson@live.com
If you have any questions about our blog, please feel free to send a message to social@cantoocity.com