RYAN CRONIN was born and raised in Katonah, N.Y., the third child of working class parents. Cronin’s entrance into the world in 1972 was perhaps a glimpse of things to come. Born on the front seat of a late 60’s Plymouth Station Wagon, he’s kept his parents, friends, and audiences on their toes ever since. Cronin attended SVA and SUNY Purchase in the early 90’s, and finally found his home at SUNY New Paltz, where he graduated with a degree in Fine Arts in 1998.
Growing up in the 1980’s, Cronin was surrounded by and embraced pop culture. The bright colors and sounds of punk rock, skateboarding, MTV, and graffiti, and the youthful, push-it-to-the-limit attitude of the time became an integral part of who Cronin is today. This influence is apparent in his playful yet intelligent approach to painting.
His work is held in several private collections in Miami, New York, and California. He currently resides in upstate New York. He enjoys his neighbor’s weekend home delivery of the New York Times, and he loves to paint.
Artist’s Statement
When people look at my work, I want them to feel an immediate impact, even if they’re not sure what hit them. I like to cite the less-cultivated elements of the hand-lettered sign and the pop song as two key influences that have contributed as much as my formal training to my signature style. These influences have led to the creation of an art that is referential, though not necessarily representational, that is thought-provoking and takes the viewer on a brief, lyrical journey full of free association and surprise.
When someone encounters one of my pieces I want them to experience a new perception or sudden insight, and above all, to enjoy themselves in the process. I hope the encounter will change their day, maybe give them something to think about or remark upon later. And if the painting and the viewer really get along, perhaps it will be the start of a lifelong relationship.
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“Art Pants, You Don’t Have To Be An Artist To Look Like One”
“Ode To Feel The Sunshine On Your Ass”
“The Taste Of Sweet Revenge Chewing Gum”
“Happy Little Rain Cloud”
“Night Crawlers”
“Tennis At Ten, Cocktails At Noon, It Says Hate On The Other Hand”
“Tea Cups and Swirl Curls”
“Double Rainbows”
“Turkey Trot”