Art Chat with Ryan Bubnis
Bold, graphic, and whimsical in approach, Ryan Bubnis' work focuses on the simplification of shape and form. In anticipation of the upcoming group exhibit STRAIGHT OUTTA PORTLAND at Stephanie Chefas Projects. we had a chat with the Portland based artist. Here he talks about his process, clouds, and Pablo Picasso's 'Three Musicians'.
What was it about Portland that made you fall in love and decided to call this city home? How has living in the Pacific Northwest shaped your creativity?
I moved up to the Northwest from the Bay Area because it was more of an affordable option than living in San Francisco. That was 16 years ago.
I've always been drawn to Portland's strong independent and entrepreneurial spirit. This city has always made me feel that if I worked hard enough I could make something happen. Portland has been a long series of creative firsts for me. My first art shows, my first client work, getting my degree in illustration, building and maintaining my studio/practice, and now teaching. The city and its creative communities have always been good to me and I truly appreciate it.
Tell us about your process. How does a work evolve from conception to completion?
My process varies from doing drawings and studies versus executing a piece with no clear plan of attack. I enjoy the results I achieve from these different approaches.
Your work for Straight Outta Portland is a whimsical exploration of shape and form. Tell us about the inspiration behind this piece.
Looking at abstract paintings has always reminded me of looking up at clouds as a kid. If you looked hard enough you could always find something representational in the shapes and forms. It's a comment on abstract painting and the dialog it has with the viewer.
If you could hang only one artwork from art history in your home or studio, what would it be and why?
'Three Musicians' by Pablo Picasso, 1921. Specifically the one with more brown in the background. It's one of my all time favorite paintings. Deceptively simple. Bold, graphic, and magical.
Tell us something about yourself we wouldn't necessarily know.
I like sports. Go team!
If I were to spend the day with Ryan, what could I expect?
Good music, good food, and hopefully good conversation.
STRAIGHT OUTTA PORTLAND opens February 5th at Stephanie Chefas Projects, 305 SE 3rd Ave, Portland, OR 97214, www.stephaniechefas.com.
