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Bryan Ryley Art

Canadian, b. 1952
Operating from his Vernon, British Columbia studio, Bryan Ryley has established himself as a significant contemporary Canadian abstract artist. His rigorous and sustained practice intricately explores the dynamic interplay between figure and ground across painting, drawing, and collage, with thoughtful incursions into sculpture and photography. This cross-media approach serves as a vital methodology through which Ryley meticulously dissects and reimagines core principles of structure, seriality, and the inherent expressive potential of diverse materials. At the heart of Ryley's artistic investigation lies a profound engagement with figure/ground relationships, operating on both psychological and visual levels. He perceives these relationships as being in constant flux, perpetually shifting the viewer's perceptual platform and resisting fixed interpretations. This core conceptual framework informs his deliberate construction of visual experiences that reflect the dynamic structure of how we perceive and make sense of the world around us. This concept is particularly evident in his paperwork. Ryley establishes the ground before applying black acrylic, which is scraped across the surface in varying thicknesses, partially revealing underlying elements. He intuitively responds, allowing emotive feelings to guide figurative shapes. The introduction of used canvas tarp, with its inherent history, becomes a key element, often centrally placed to create a visual tension between figures and field, where focus can shift dominance. This nuanced process highlights Ryley's exploration of perception and the dialogue between intention and chance. Underlying Ryley's practice is an intentional choice of materials, particularly stained and discarded tarps, which he finds inherently beautiful and politically charged. This elevation of non-'fine art' materials challenges conventional perspectives and illustrates his engagement with shifting figure/ground dynamics, imbuing his work with layers of meaning. Ultimately, Ryley views his work as a celebration of the inherent struggle within these relationships, resonating with universal human experience. Ryley exhibits in Canada and the United States, garnering critical acclaim and collector attention. His work is included in the permanent collections of the Government of Canada, the Canadian Consulate in Paris, The Canada Council Art Bank, the British Columbia Art Collection, the Kelowna and Vernon Public Art Galleries, Pratt Institute, and the Racine Art Museum. Corporate collections include Canadian Pacific and SunLife Financial. His broader recognition includes features in World of Interiors and British Vogue. His formative education at Pratt Institute (MFA Honours) and the University of Victoria (BFA Honours), along with participation in the Whitney Museum Graduate program, provided a strong foundation. The pivotal experience of the Emma Lake workshops, engaging with influential figures, refined his understanding of abstract language and the relationship between intention and outcome. Bryan Ryley’s artistic practice represents a sustained and critical inquiry into abstract art and perception. His meticulously executed works are held in significant public and corporate collections across Canada and the United States. His compelling vision has resonated widely, inviting engagement with his unique exploration of the dynamic interplay between figure and ground, material and meaning, ultimately reflecting the complexities of human experience.
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Artist: Bryan Ryley
Subterranean Weathervane Mixed Media Artwork, 1980s Charcoal & Ink
Subterranean Weathervane Mixed Media Artwork, 1980s Charcoal & Ink

Subterranean Weathervane Mixed Media Artwork, 1980s Charcoal & Ink

By Bryan Ryley

Located in Vancouver, CA

Bryan Ryley: Rigorous Inquiry at the Intersection of Material and Structure Bryan Ryley, a significant figure in contemporary Canadian abstraction, operates from his studio in Verno...

Category

1980s Bryan Ryley Art

Materials

Charcoal, Ink, Gouache, Handmade Paper

Raven's Weathervane Mixed Media Artwork, Abstract, 1980s, Framed
Raven's Weathervane Mixed Media Artwork, Abstract, 1980s, Framed

Raven's Weathervane Mixed Media Artwork, Abstract, 1980s, Framed

By Bryan Ryley

Located in Vancouver, CA

Bryan Ryley: Rigorous Inquiry at the Intersection of Material and Structure Bryan Ryley, a significant figure in contemporary Canadian abstraction, operates from his studio in Verno...

Category

1980s Abstract Bryan Ryley Art

Materials

Charcoal, Ink, Gouache, Handmade Paper

AP 10 Abstract Painting on Canvas, Acrylic, Contemporary, Unframed
AP 10 Abstract Painting on Canvas, Acrylic, Contemporary, Unframed

AP 10 Abstract Painting on Canvas, Acrylic, Contemporary, Unframed

By Bryan Ryley

Located in Vancouver, CA

Bryan Ryley: Rigorous Inquiry at the Intersection of Material and Structure Bryan Ryley, a significant figure in contemporary Canadian abstraction, operates from his studio in Verno...

Category

2010s Abstract Bryan Ryley Art

Materials

Canvas, Acrylic

Spirit Level Mixed Media Artwork, Acrylic & Ink on Rag Paper, Signed
Spirit Level Mixed Media Artwork, Acrylic & Ink on Rag Paper, Signed

Spirit Level Mixed Media Artwork, Acrylic & Ink on Rag Paper, Signed

By Bryan Ryley

Located in Vancouver, CA

This powerful work on paper is a singular piece from the "Sum of Destructions" series by Bryan Ryley. This entire series of twelve works, along with a monumental painting of the same...

Category

Early 2000s Bryan Ryley Art

Materials

Ink, Acrylic, Gouache, Rag Paper, Graphite

Texas Cowboy Mixed Media Artwork, Abstract Expressionist, 22x30
Texas Cowboy Mixed Media Artwork, Abstract Expressionist, 22x30

Texas Cowboy Mixed Media Artwork, Abstract Expressionist, 22x30

By Bryan Ryley

Located in Vancouver, CA

This powerful work on paper is a singular piece from the "Sum of Destructions" series by Bryan Ryley. This entire series of twelve works, along with a monumental painting of the same...

Category

Early 2000s Abstract Expressionist Bryan Ryley Art

Materials

Ink, Acrylic, Gouache, Rag Paper, Graphite

Clouds and Chickens Mixed Media Artwork, Abstract Expressionist, 22x30
Clouds and Chickens Mixed Media Artwork, Abstract Expressionist, 22x30

Clouds and Chickens Mixed Media Artwork, Abstract Expressionist, 22x30

By Bryan Ryley

Located in Vancouver, CA

This powerful work on paper is a singular piece from the "Sum of Destructions" series by Bryan Ryley. This entire series of twelve works, along with a monumental painting of the same...

Category

Early 2000s Abstract Expressionist Bryan Ryley Art

Materials

Ink, Acrylic, Gouache, Rag Paper, Graphite

Between a Rock: Signed Mixed Media Abstract Expressionist Artwork
Between a Rock: Signed Mixed Media Abstract Expressionist Artwork

Between a Rock: Signed Mixed Media Abstract Expressionist Artwork

By Bryan Ryley

Located in Vancouver, CA

This powerful work on paper is a singular piece from the "Sum of Destructions" series by Bryan Ryley. This entire series of twelve works, along with a monumental painting of the same...

Category

Early 2000s Abstract Expressionist Bryan Ryley Art

Materials

Ink, Acrylic, Gouache, Rag Paper, Graphite

Nervous Rooster Mixed Media Artwork, Signed, 2000-2009
Nervous Rooster Mixed Media Artwork, Signed, 2000-2009

Nervous Rooster Mixed Media Artwork, Signed, 2000-2009

By Bryan Ryley

Located in Vancouver, CA

This powerful work on paper is a singular piece from the "Sum of Destructions" series by Bryan Ryley. This entire series of twelve works, along with a monumental painting of the same...

Category

Early 2000s Bryan Ryley Art

Materials

Ink, Acrylic, Gouache, Rag Paper

Family Architecture Abstract Painting, Acrylic on Canvas, 2010+
Family Architecture Abstract Painting, Acrylic on Canvas, 2010+

Family Architecture Abstract Painting, Acrylic on Canvas, 2010+

By Bryan Ryley

Located in Vancouver, CA

Bryan Ryley: Rigorous Inquiry at the Intersection of Material and Structure Bryan Ryley, a significant figure in contemporary Canadian abstraction, operates from his studio in Verno...

Category

2010s Abstract Bryan Ryley Art

Materials

Canvas, Acrylic

Pond Abstract Painting, Acrylic on Canvas, 2010s, Unframed, 60x48 in
Pond Abstract Painting, Acrylic on Canvas, 2010s, Unframed, 60x48 in

Pond Abstract Painting, Acrylic on Canvas, 2010s, Unframed, 60x48 in

By Bryan Ryley

Located in Vancouver, CA

Bryan Ryley: Rigorous Inquiry at the Intersection of Material and Structure Bryan Ryley, a significant figure in contemporary Canadian abstraction, operates from his studio in Verno...

Category

2010s Abstract Bryan Ryley Art

Materials

Canvas, Acrylic

Workerman Abstract Painting, Acrylic on Canvas, 2010s, Unframed, 72x60
Workerman Abstract Painting, Acrylic on Canvas, 2010s, Unframed, 72x60

Workerman Abstract Painting, Acrylic on Canvas, 2010s, Unframed, 72x60

By Bryan Ryley

Located in Vancouver, CA

Bryan Ryley: Rigorous Inquiry at the Intersection of Material and Structure Bryan Ryley, a significant figure in contemporary Canadian abstraction, operates from his studio in Verno...

Category

2010s Abstract Bryan Ryley Art

Materials

Canvas, Acrylic

Orwell Abstract Painting, Acrylic on Canvas, 2010s, Unframed, 72x60
Orwell Abstract Painting, Acrylic on Canvas, 2010s, Unframed, 72x60

Orwell Abstract Painting, Acrylic on Canvas, 2010s, Unframed, 72x60

By Bryan Ryley

Located in Vancouver, CA

Bryan Ryley: Rigorous Inquiry at the Intersection of Material and Structure Bryan Ryley, a significant figure in contemporary Canadian abstraction, operates from his studio in Verno...

Category

2010s Abstract Bryan Ryley Art

Materials

Canvas, Acrylic

Anxious Man Mixed Media Artwork, Abstract, Canvas & Acrylic, 2010-
Anxious Man Mixed Media Artwork, Abstract, Canvas & Acrylic, 2010-

Anxious Man Mixed Media Artwork, Abstract, Canvas & Acrylic, 2010-

By Bryan Ryley

Located in Vancouver, CA

Bryan Ryley: Rigorous Inquiry at the Intersection of Material and Structure Bryan Ryley, a significant figure in contemporary Canadian abstraction, operates from his studio in Verno...

Category

2010s Abstract Bryan Ryley Art

Materials

Canvas, Acrylic, Handmade Paper, Photographic Paper

Street Abstract Expressionist Painting on Handmade Paper, 2010
Street Abstract Expressionist Painting on Handmade Paper, 2010

Street Abstract Expressionist Painting on Handmade Paper, 2010

By Bryan Ryley

Located in Vancouver, CA

Bryan Ryley: Rigorous Inquiry at the Intersection of Material and Structure Bryan Ryley, a significant figure in contemporary Canadian abstraction, operates from his studio in Verno...

Category

2010s Abstract Expressionist Bryan Ryley Art

Materials

Acrylic, Handmade Paper

Paseo de la Reforma, Abstract Acrylic Painting on Canvas, 2000s
Paseo de la Reforma, Abstract Acrylic Painting on Canvas, 2000s

Paseo de la Reforma, Abstract Acrylic Painting on Canvas, 2000s

By Bryan Ryley

Located in Vancouver, CA

Bryan Ryley: Rigorous Inquiry at the Intersection of Material and Structure Bryan Ryley, a significant figure in contemporary Canadian abstraction, operates from his studio in Verno...

Category

Early 2000s Abstract Bryan Ryley Art

Materials

Canvas, Acrylic

On Guard Abstract Painting, Acrylic on Canvas, 2010s, Unframed, 72x60
On Guard Abstract Painting, Acrylic on Canvas, 2010s, Unframed, 72x60

On Guard Abstract Painting, Acrylic on Canvas, 2010s, Unframed, 72x60

By Bryan Ryley

Located in Vancouver, CA

Bryan Ryley: Rigorous Inquiry at the Intersection of Material and Structure Bryan Ryley, a significant figure in contemporary Canadian abstraction, operates from his studio in Verno...

Category

2010s Abstract Bryan Ryley Art

Materials

Canvas, Acrylic

Sum of Destructions Acrylic and Graphite Diptych, Abstract, 2004
Sum of Destructions Acrylic and Graphite Diptych, Abstract, 2004

Sum of Destructions Acrylic and Graphite Diptych, Abstract, 2004

By Bryan Ryley

Located in Vancouver, CA

Bryan Ryley: Rigorous Inquiry at the Intersection of Material and Structure Bryan Ryley, a significant figure in contemporary Canadian abstraction, operates from his studio in Verno...

Category

Early 2000s Abstract Bryan Ryley Art

Materials

Acrylic, Panel, Graphite

Pablo and Me Mixed Media Artwork, Abstract, Signed, 2000-2009
Pablo and Me Mixed Media Artwork, Abstract, Signed, 2000-2009

Pablo and Me Mixed Media Artwork, Abstract, Signed, 2000-2009

By Bryan Ryley

Located in Vancouver, CA

This powerful work on paper is a singular piece from the "Sum of Destructions" series by Bryan Ryley. This entire series of twelve works, along with a monumental painting of the same...

Category

Early 2000s Abstract Bryan Ryley Art

Materials

Ink, Acrylic, Gouache, Rag Paper, Graphite

Here and There Abstract Painting, Acrylic on Canvas, 2000-2009
Here and There Abstract Painting, Acrylic on Canvas, 2000-2009

Here and There Abstract Painting, Acrylic on Canvas, 2000-2009

By Bryan Ryley

Located in Vancouver, CA

Bryan Ryley: Rigorous Inquiry at the Intersection of Material and Structure Bryan Ryley, a significant figure in contemporary Canadian abstraction, operates from his studio in Verno...

Category

Early 2000s Abstract Bryan Ryley Art

Materials

Canvas, Acrylic

Plumb Bob Abstract Painting, Acrylic on Canvas, 2000-2009, Unframed
Plumb Bob Abstract Painting, Acrylic on Canvas, 2000-2009, Unframed

Plumb Bob Abstract Painting, Acrylic on Canvas, 2000-2009, Unframed

By Bryan Ryley

Located in Vancouver, CA

Bryan Ryley: Rigorous Inquiry at the Intersection of Material and Structure Bryan Ryley, a significant figure in contemporary Canadian abstraction, operates from his studio in Verno...

Category

Early 2000s Abstract Bryan Ryley Art

Materials

Canvas, Acrylic

Walking Through It: Mixed Media Abstract Expressionist Art, 22x30
Walking Through It: Mixed Media Abstract Expressionist Art, 22x30

Walking Through It: Mixed Media Abstract Expressionist Art, 22x30

By Bryan Ryley

Located in Vancouver, CA

This powerful work on paper is a singular piece from the "Sum of Destructions" series by Bryan Ryley. This entire series of twelve works, along with a monumental painting of the same...

Category

Early 2000s Abstract Expressionist Bryan Ryley Art

Materials

Ink, Acrylic, Gouache, Rag Paper, Graphite

Zapata Beach 3, Abstract Acrylic Painting on Canvas, 2010- Unframed
Zapata Beach 3, Abstract Acrylic Painting on Canvas, 2010- Unframed

Zapata Beach 3, Abstract Acrylic Painting on Canvas, 2010- Unframed

By Bryan Ryley

Located in Vancouver, CA

Bryan Ryley: Rigorous Inquiry at the Intersection of Material and Structure Bryan Ryley, a significant figure in contemporary Canadian abstraction, operates from his studio in Verno...

Category

2010s Abstract Bryan Ryley Art

Materials

Canvas, Acrylic

AP 1 Abstract Painting on Canvas, Acrylic, 2010+, Unframed, 60x72
AP 1 Abstract Painting on Canvas, Acrylic, 2010+, Unframed, 60x72

AP 1 Abstract Painting on Canvas, Acrylic, 2010+, Unframed, 60x72

By Bryan Ryley

Located in Vancouver, CA

Bryan Ryley: Rigorous Inquiry at the Intersection of Material and Structure Bryan Ryley, a significant figure in contemporary Canadian abstraction, operates from his studio in Verno...

Category

2010s Abstract Bryan Ryley Art

Materials

Canvas, Acrylic

AP 5 Abstract Painting on Canvas, Acrylic, 2010s, Unframed, 48x40
AP 5 Abstract Painting on Canvas, Acrylic, 2010s, Unframed, 48x40

AP 5 Abstract Painting on Canvas, Acrylic, 2010s, Unframed, 48x40

By Bryan Ryley

Located in Vancouver, CA

Bryan Ryley: Rigorous Inquiry at the Intersection of Material and Structure Bryan Ryley, a significant figure in contemporary Canadian abstraction, operates from his studio in Verno...

Category

2010s Abstract Bryan Ryley Art

Materials

Canvas, Acrylic

On the Road to WA: Abstract Acrylic Painting on Canvas, 2000s
On the Road to WA: Abstract Acrylic Painting on Canvas, 2000s

On the Road to WA: Abstract Acrylic Painting on Canvas, 2000s

By Bryan Ryley

Located in Vancouver, CA

Bryan Ryley: Rigorous Inquiry at the Intersection of Material and Structure Bryan Ryley, a significant figure in contemporary Canadian abstraction, operates from his studio in Verno...

Category

Early 2000s Bryan Ryley Art

Materials

Canvas, Acrylic

AP 1 Abstract Painting on Canvas, Acrylic, 2010+, Unframed, 60x72
AP 1 Abstract Painting on Canvas, Acrylic, 2010+, Unframed, 60x72

AP 1 Abstract Painting on Canvas, Acrylic, 2010+, Unframed, 60x72

By Bryan Ryley

Located in Vancouver, CA

Bryan Ryley: Rigorous Inquiry at the Intersection of Material and Structure Bryan Ryley, a significant figure in contemporary Canadian abstraction, operates from his studio in Verno...

Category

2010s Abstract Bryan Ryley Art

Materials

Canvas, Acrylic

Zapata Beach 1, Abstract Acrylic Painting on Canvas, 2010- Unframed
Zapata Beach 1, Abstract Acrylic Painting on Canvas, 2010- Unframed

Zapata Beach 1, Abstract Acrylic Painting on Canvas, 2010- Unframed

By Bryan Ryley

Located in Vancouver, CA

Bryan Ryley: Rigorous Inquiry at the Intersection of Material and Structure Bryan Ryley, a significant figure in contemporary Canadian abstraction, operates from his studio in Verno...

Category

2010s Abstract Bryan Ryley Art

Materials

Canvas, Acrylic

Sentinel Abstract Painting on Handmade Paper, Acrylic, 2000s
Sentinel Abstract Painting on Handmade Paper, Acrylic, 2000s

Sentinel Abstract Painting on Handmade Paper, Acrylic, 2000s

By Bryan Ryley

Located in Vancouver, CA

Bryan Ryley: Rigorous Inquiry at the Intersection of Material and Structure Bryan Ryley, a significant figure in contemporary Canadian abstraction, operates from his studio in Verno...

Category

Early 2000s Abstract Bryan Ryley Art

Materials

Acrylic, Handmade Paper

Triple Crossed Abstract Painting on Handmade Paper, Signed, 2000-2009
Triple Crossed Abstract Painting on Handmade Paper, Signed, 2000-2009

Triple Crossed Abstract Painting on Handmade Paper, Signed, 2000-2009

By Bryan Ryley

Located in Vancouver, CA

Bryan Ryley: Rigorous Inquiry at the Intersection of Material and Structure Bryan Ryley, a significant figure in contemporary Canadian abstraction, operates from his studio in Verno...

Category

Early 2000s Abstract Bryan Ryley Art

Materials

Acrylic, Handmade Paper, Archival Pigment

Blue Hand Mixed Media Artwork, Abstract Expressionist, Signed, 2000s
Blue Hand Mixed Media Artwork, Abstract Expressionist, Signed, 2000s

Blue Hand Mixed Media Artwork, Abstract Expressionist, Signed, 2000s

By Bryan Ryley

Located in Vancouver, CA

This powerful work on paper is a singular piece from the "Sum of Destructions" series by Bryan Ryley. This entire series of twelve works, along with a monumental painting of the same...

Category

Early 2000s Abstract Expressionist Bryan Ryley Art

Materials

Ink, Acrylic, Gouache, Rag Paper, Graphite

Negotiating Table Mixed Media Artwork, Abstract Expressionist, 22x30
Negotiating Table Mixed Media Artwork, Abstract Expressionist, 22x30

Negotiating Table Mixed Media Artwork, Abstract Expressionist, 22x30

By Bryan Ryley

Located in Vancouver, CA

This powerful work on paper is a singular piece from the "Sum of Destructions" series by Bryan Ryley. This entire series of twelve works, along with a monumental painting of the same...

Category

Early 2000s Abstract Expressionist Bryan Ryley Art

Materials

Ink, Acrylic, Gouache, Rag Paper, Graphite

Valdotavo Mixed Media Artwork, Abstract Expressionist, Signed, 2000s
Valdotavo Mixed Media Artwork, Abstract Expressionist, Signed, 2000s

Valdotavo Mixed Media Artwork, Abstract Expressionist, Signed, 2000s

By Bryan Ryley

Located in Vancouver, CA

This powerful work on paper is a singular piece from the "Sum of Destructions" series by Bryan Ryley. This entire series of twelve works, along with a monumental painting of the same...

Category

Early 2000s Abstract Expressionist Bryan Ryley Art

Materials

Ink, Acrylic, Gouache, Rag Paper, Graphite

Head in the Sand Mixed Media Artwork, Abstract Expressionist, 2000s
Head in the Sand Mixed Media Artwork, Abstract Expressionist, 2000s

Head in the Sand Mixed Media Artwork, Abstract Expressionist, 2000s

By Bryan Ryley

Located in Vancouver, CA

This powerful work on paper is a singular piece from the "Sum of Destructions" series by Bryan Ryley. This entire series of twelve works, along with a monumental painting of the same...

Category

Early 2000s Abstract Expressionist Bryan Ryley Art

Materials

Ink, Acrylic, Gouache, Rag Paper, Graphite

Morning Briefing Abstract Painting, Acrylic on Canvas, 2010-
Morning Briefing Abstract Painting, Acrylic on Canvas, 2010-

Morning Briefing Abstract Painting, Acrylic on Canvas, 2010-

By Bryan Ryley

Located in Vancouver, CA

Bryan Ryley: Rigorous Inquiry at the Intersection of Material and Structure Bryan Ryley, a significant figure in contemporary Canadian abstraction, operates from his studio in Verno...

Category

2010s Abstract Bryan Ryley Art

Materials

Canvas, Acrylic

Flood Abstract Painting, Acrylic on Canvas, 2010s, Unframed, 48x60
Flood Abstract Painting, Acrylic on Canvas, 2010s, Unframed, 48x60

Flood Abstract Painting, Acrylic on Canvas, 2010s, Unframed, 48x60

By Bryan Ryley

Located in Vancouver, CA

Bryan Ryley: Rigorous Inquiry at the Intersection of Material and Structure Bryan Ryley, a significant figure in contemporary Canadian abstraction, operates from his studio in Verno...

Category

2010s Abstract Bryan Ryley Art

Materials

Canvas, Acrylic

Conchita's Dress, Abstract Painting on Canvas, Acrylic, 2010-
Conchita's Dress, Abstract Painting on Canvas, Acrylic, 2010-

Conchita's Dress, Abstract Painting on Canvas, Acrylic, 2010-

By Bryan Ryley

Located in Vancouver, CA

Bryan Ryley: Rigorous Inquiry at the Intersection of Material and Structure Bryan Ryley, a significant figure in contemporary Canadian abstraction, operates from his studio in Verno...

Category

2010s Abstract Bryan Ryley Art

Materials

Canvas, Acrylic

Bryan Ryley art for sale on 1stDibs.

Find a wide variety of authentic Bryan Ryley art available for sale on 1stDibs. If you’re browsing the collection of art to introduce a pop of color in a neutral corner of your living room or bedroom, you can find work that includes elements of red and other colors. You can also browse by medium to find art by Bryan Ryley in paint, acrylic paint, synthetic resin paint and more. Much of the original work by this artist or collective was created during the 21st century and contemporary and is mostly associated with the abstract style. Not every interior allows for large Bryan Ryley art, so small editions measuring 28 inches across are available. Bryan Ryley art prices can differ depending upon medium, time period and other attributes. On 1stDibs, the price for these items starts at $2,240 and tops out at $24,000, while the average work can sell for $6,325.