Jo Ryan

Blending bold colours with razor-sharp precision, Jo Ryan’s art (b. 1966) utilises her extensive graphic design knowledge to explore communication in all its forms: words, lines, colours, patterns, language, and stories are all thoughtfully observed in her paintings, sculpture, and Mokuhanga prints. Created mainly through the use of spray paint and signwriter’s vinyl, she produces astute observational art that makes us see our everyday world differently.

Ryan was born in Melbourne, Australia and studied graphic design at university, with a particular interest and passion for art history. She then worked alongside her husband at their design and advertising company, Socket to Me Pty Ltd. Throughout her working life she dabbled with paintings and drawings till eventually venturing out to create art that is both personal and thought-provoking.

She has exhibited in many solo shows and group exhibitions and been a finalist in many art prizes for both paintings and sculpture, including the Ravenswood Women’s Prize, twice, and the coveted Deakin University Contemporary Small Sculpture Prize.

The artist currently works out of Blender Studios in West Melbourne.