Ian Ryan

Connect What inspired your most recent tattoo?

Panthers are known for being solitary animals who often go through life alone. When I was 18 I felt compelled towards this animal as they are amazing creatures that go through life alone. Growing up this is how i felt and wanted a tattoo that represented that without people saying its a cliche. My parents kicked me out when I was 16 years old which cause me to be even more of solitary person that could only rely on myself to survive like a panther.

If your ink could speak, what would it say?

My ink tells the stories of myself and the artists that created it. I wish to be a walking piece of art that creates thought in those around me, whether its something they think looks cool, something they feel a connection towards, or something with meaning that invokes a message that can carry on through their life. I wish for my ink to make a statement that who you are and where you come from is a part of you and that you can't nor should you hide from it, but instead wear it on your sleeve.

What would you do with the $25,000?

I'm currently a producer and designer for film and theatre, and moved to New York to start a production company where we give artists of all mediums the tools and resources to create what they want to create without the fear of corporations saying it's not good because it won't make them millions of dollars. I would use the $25000 to help fund the success of this company. Specifically, jump-starting our youth outreach program and accessible art program.