Ryan’s enigmatic paintings present an examination of existence through realistic depictions of life. Scenes captured in the everyday world are painstakingly reimagined with the brush on canvas and a conscious purpose to extract meaning from that which underlies our being. Subject matter portrayed is not merely static but dynamic form in an ever changing interplay of light and shadow, desecration and rebirth. Close observation leads details to fade away as the line between precision and abstraction blurs. A deliberate choice to depict elements in and out of focus channels narratives of searching, loneliness and the fragility of existence.
Jones’ early work provided social commentary through a juxtaposition of imagery from media sources spanning several decades, however recent paintings mark a significant departure. After years of city life, a move to a rural area with vibrant flora in the hillsides surrounding his studio opened the doors to new sources of inspiration. Themes such as beauty, mortality, and loss have begun to underpin his practice as the transient qualities of each of these serves to reaffirm the present. Flowers bloom then fade and light burns bright then extinguishes as these cycles perpetuate across eternity. Through an exploration of the details and repetition in these cycles, Ryan searches for intention in the cosmic mysteries of our world. Florals are easy to dismiss as ordinary, but up close they are an alien embodiment of the energy force that dictates our reality as well. Searingly relevant in today's fast world of social media obsession, Jones’ work beckons us to step away from our devices and pay closer attention to the knowledge in nature’s continual offering.
Ryan Lawrence Jones is an American artist known for contemporary realist paintings. Born in Alameda, CA, Jones’ artistic journey was shaped early by studies in the San Francisco Bay Area at CCA. Later at Stanford University, notable artist Enrique Chagoya provided mentorship and Jones graduated with degrees in both Engineering and Art. After school Ryan worked as a backdrop painter for George Lucas on scores of Hollywood films where his eye for cinematic intrigue helped mold a distinct lens through which he viewed the world. This work in the film industry led him across the globe to Singapore where he lived for several years before returning back to Mill Valley, CA where Ryan now resides and paints. Over time Jones began employing a largely self taught fusion of techniques inspired by a love of the old masters and contemporary favorites such as James Rosenquist. Ryan’s work now embraces and challenges the traditions of realist painting with a modern exploration of contemporary practices and observations. His artwork is included in a number of prestigious private collections including that of Prince Albert II and has been showcased in galleries, museums and art fairs all over the world. CV
For a creative mind there is no greater expression of joy than helping others find meaning and purpose through art. The Kids & Art Foundation is an organization that helps children fighting life threatening illnesses experience joy and peace through creativity. Their mission centers around doing this in a collaborative and inclusive community atmosphere. Ryan donates a portion of his proceeds to this incredible cause, volunteers his time, and encourages you to visit their website at kidsandart.org and make a difference through the arts.