RYAN JESTER

Lady Mouse, 2021
Acrylic on canvas
Self-taught Canadian artist Ryan Jester uses his nostalgia for popular cartoon characters of the 80s & 90s in a unique way. Each composition is comprised of a character’s recognizable features that are put together in unusual ways. An interesting concept which adds a fun `guess who´ element to the art experience.
As a full-time Marketing Manager Jester spends his free time pushing the pop art envelope in a daring way describing it as `Abstract Cartoonism´, a movement that will hopefully catch on. Jester´s passion for cartoons and creating come together in a vibrant and refreshing way that only makes us excited to see what he will create in the future.
Where are you from?
Toronto, Canada.
An artist, musician, and actor you´d invite to dinner.
I hate when people pick dead people for this question, there’s no better time than the present, so here are mine: Kaws, ASAP Rocky, and Jim Carrey.
I´m inspired by …
Nostalgia and bright colors.
Describe your art in three words.
Bright, Bold, Fun.
Three tips to keep creativity flowing
3. Daydream as much as possible, that’s how a lot of ideas come to me.
How did the quarantine affect your creative process?
The quarantine was the best thing that could have happened for me as an artist. It gave me so much uninterrupted time to create. Some things happen for a reason and this was the silver lining to a global pandemic.

It’s a-me, Mario!
Star Plumber, 2021
Acrylic on canvas
36” x 36”
What music do you listen to when creating?
Surprisingly, nothing. When I’m in the zone I need complete silence to focus. This is one of my quirks that is definitely different from most artists.
How has your art has evolved over the past three years?
I’ve always tried to incorporate cartoon characters into my art. I’ve experimented with many styles and patterns, some of which I’m keeping close to my vest for any future artwork. ‘Abstract Cartoonism’ was the first line of work I was proud to showcase to the world. As my style has evolved over the years, I still tend to gravitate towards bright acrylic colors that just make me feel happy.
Is there something creative you’d like to try?
I’ve got enough on my plate with my paintings – but I’ve always been curious about glass blowing. It’s an insanely hard skill to master.
How do you manage your time between creating and working full time?
I’m very systematic. I like to create timelines and find ways to better be efficient to see projects from beginning to end. I work from 9 am-5 pm with my marketing job and then 6 pm-1 am with my art. Although it can be tiring at times, I have the mental toughness to push through and give 100% to both parts of my life. There’s a saying I live by “I can sleep when I’m dead”.
How do you stay inspired?
For me, it comes naturally and usually with no effort. Everything that exists around me, whatever I see, hear, feel and think inspires me.

Aye-aye, captain!
Sea Sponge, 2020
Acrylic on canvas
36” by 36”
Most inspiring place you have visited.
For me, every place has something special to be captivated by. But I absolutely loved the goth For my specific style of art: New York City and Miami. With so many great artists, both cities are buzzing with amazing inspiration.
Three of your favourite cartoon characters.
An artist on Instagram that we need to follow.
Aaron Kai – I’ve been a big fan of his work for quite some time. I love his style and the colors he chooses for all his pieces. He’s an amazing artist all around!
Did your business degree help you in any way with selling your art?
My business background has provided me with the tools to treat my artwork as a business from the get go. The ‘Abstract Cartoonism’ style I created was my ah-ha moment. Once I knew I was on to something, I spent much time focusing on the branding and marketing of Ryan Jester. I put together a website in one weekend and began to share my work on social media. I’ve tried to gain exposure with various marketing tactics to hopefully see sales come through the marketing funnels I’ve created.
Words you live by.
“Act like you’ve been there before.”

Arthvark, 2021
Acrylic on canvas