Mark Ryden

Mark Ryden, born in 1963 in Medford, Oregon, and raised in California, embarked on his artistic journey in Pasadena, obtaining a Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) from the Art Center College of Design in 1987.

Initially delving into illustration, Ryden gained significant recognition during the '90s for his distinctive style. Notably, his artistic prowess graced album covers for globally renowned bands like Aerosmith ("Love in an Elevator"), Red Hot Chili Peppers ("One Hot Minute"), and the iconic "Dangerous" by Michael Jackson. These contributions catapulted Ryden into the limelight, catching the attention of Robert Williams, leading to a cover feature in the influential Juxtapoz magazine in 1994. This publication is dedicated to "lowbrow art," an underground movement that originated in California during the '70s, holding the distinction of being the second best-selling magazine in the US.

Beyond his acclaimed illustration work, Mark Ryden's artistic oeuvre expanded to encompass fine art. His exhibitions, showcased at esteemed galleries such as the Michael Kohn Gallery in Los Angeles and the Paul Kasmin Gallery in New York, garnered significant acclaim.

Mark Ryden's artistic impact transcends borders, with exhibitions held in cities worldwide, including Seattle, Paris, Tokyo, and Portland. His works have been displayed in prestigious institutions like the Frye Museum of Art and have ventured into the realms of performing arts, collaborating with the American Ballet Theatre and choreographer Alexei Ratmansky.

Ryden's influence extends to the world of opera, with his stunning visual designs featured at esteemed venues like the Vienna State Opera, illustrating performances set to the music of Richard Strauss. Mark Ryden's art continues to captivate audiences globally, showcasing his unique blend of surrealism, symbolism, and pop culture references, all rooted in his Californian upbringing and artistic evolution.