Ryan Travis Christian

"HEY MAN, I'M JUST TRYING TO PUSH THROUGH THIS SHIT" Contemporary Pop Painting

2023

Ryan Travis Christian is a contemporary American artist best known for his intricate drawings, which often feature humorous and surreal imagery. Born in 1983 in the suburbs of Chicago, Christian was interested in art from a young age, but it wasn't until he discovered drawing that he found his true passion. Christian's early drawings were heavily influenced by the punk and metal music scenes of the 1990s, as well as underground comics and graffiti art. He began experimenting with different styles and techniques, and soon developed a unique visual language that blended elements of pop culture, surrealism, and abstraction. After studying art at the Illinois Institute of Art and the School of the Art Institute of Chicago, Christian moved to Los Angeles in 2009 to pursue his career as an artist. There, he began exhibiting his work in galleries and group shows, and quickly gained a following for his innovative and engaging drawings. Christian's drawings are often composed of intricate patterns and textures, which he builds up layer by layer using graphite and ink. He is particularly skilled at creating optical illusions and trompe l'oeil effects, which give his work a sense of depth and dimensionality. In addition to his drawings, Christian has also explored other media, including sculpture, painting, and installation. His sculptural works often incorporate found objects and everyday materials, and are characterized by a playful and irreverent sensibility. Christian has exhibited his work extensively throughout the United States and internationally, including at the Museum of Contemporary Art in Chicago, the Museum of Modern Art in New York, and the Royal Academy of Arts in London. He has also been featured in numerous publications and media outlets, including Artforum, The New York Times, and The Huffington Post. Despite his success, Christian remains committed to exploring new ideas and pushing the boundaries of his art. He continues to create innovative and engaging work that challenges viewers' perceptions and expectations, and has established himself as one of the most exciting and dynamic artists working today.