Biography

Ryan Smith is an award-winning painter specializing in western art. He grew up and lived in Arizona for the majority of his life where he immersed himself in fly fishing, hiking and camping. His oil paintings and sculptures aim to capture the natural beauty of the West, its people and its wildlife.

In 1995, Ryan received his BA in History from Arizona State University and received a JD in 1998 from Arizona State University’s Sandra Day O’Connor College of Law. After graduating from law school, Ryan dedicated his practice to working with Indian tribes throughout the West to secure their water rights.

Over the last several years, Ryan has turned his attention to oil painting where he focuses on the landscapes and people of the West. Initially a sculptor, Ryan has transitioned to oil paintings where he finds more control of the color and composition of his subjects. Ryan’s work has been juried into the 2025 Oil Painters of America National Exhibition, CM Russell Art Auction and Mountain Oyster Club Western Art Show. In 2024, his painting, “Thomas”, was an award winner in the 2024 Oil Painters of America Fall Online Showcase, and his oil painting, “Jordyn’s Turn”, received an award in the June 2025 Monthly Plein Air Salon. He has been featured by Western Art Collector, the Virginia Sportsman, Blue Ridge Outdoors, MidCurrent, Simms and Allen Outside.

Ryan has two children in college and currently resides in Maryland with his wife, Kimberly. He travels out West as much as possible to fly fish and camp, looking for inspiration for his paintings.