We had the good fortune of connecting with Mark Ryan and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Mark, how do you think about risk?

Risk-taking has always been a fun idea for me. Growing up as a skateboarder, and being outside climbing trees or watching thunder storms, my heart grew a passion for risk. I was never the best skater or snowboarder growing up, I did it for the pure excitement and adrenaline.

As for the arts, I was STOKED! I saw this world that I hoped to be a part of. Once I started my art career, I never wanted to say no. I was intimidated by the opportunity because I had internal doubts. What if I mess up? I started viewing projects as adventures.  With any great adventure there are scary parts, and that has been a huge motivator for me to just be a part of the journey. The destination or finished product will happen only after the journey.  You just have to have faith in the process.


Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.

From the beginning, I saw art as my connection to the world. Struggling with social anxiety and having a heart that loves everyone puts you in quite the pickle. So I set out to collaborate with people at first. I was annoying to an extent, because I was persistent and had visions of what we could do together, and I think that mentality stuck. I realize that it is not what I can do but what we can do together.

Having the opportunity to come out with a skateboard deck design with IF Skate Co. In LA was incredible. But selling a limited run of gold foiled ones to raise money for a skate park here in Montana? That’s life changing.


Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
I would take them to one of the dope coffee shops here in town, like Black Dog. Followed by a walk through Pioneer Park. Then head downtown to check out AG collective, kirks, and check a show at the Pub Station. Over the next couple of days, take a road trip to Red Lodge to hit up the skate park there, then go camping. If you are in western Montana, you need to hit up Yellowstone National Park. And before they leave get a burger from the Burger Dive. Then top it off with getting a tattoo from Brian Reed.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
I want to recognize my family. Growing up in a “broken home” and not having much but each other, I had a mom who gave her everything and a brother who got me into skating and art.  I would like to also shout out the Billings Montana skate community and art community.  Inspiration is like a flower – you got to help it grow for others as well.

Instagram: @mark_ryan_arts

Other: Markryanarts1@gmail.com

Nominate Someone: ShoutoutColorado is built on recommendations and shoutouts from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.