Explore Ryan Smithson’s blend of art, tales, and tunes—a journey of creativity and courage.
Welcome to Ryan Smithson’s world, where the unique Frankenfly Art meets the soulful tunes of live acoustic performances and inspiring tales from a military past. Dive into Ryan’s transformative journey from serving in Iraq to creating art that weaves together nature’s beauty and personal healing. Whether through art classes for all, captivating author visits, or heartfelt music, Ryan invites you to explore a space where creativity and resilience flourish. Join us in celebrating the power of art to connect, heal, and inspire.
About Ryan Smithson
Ryan Smithson was an engineer in the Army Reserve and served in Iraq from 2004-2005. He fortified military posts, repaired roads, and convoyed supplies across northern and western Iraq in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom. Upon returning, and for therapeutic reasons, he wrote his memoir, “Ghosts of War: The True Story of a 19-Year-Old GI” (HarperCollins, 2009), which is read in high schools and colleges around the country, including many in NY’s capital region. He also wrote “10 Klicks South of Whiskey” (Black Rose Writing, 2018), originally his master’s thesis and written and performed as a play at Averill Park High School. Having earned his MA in English at SUNY Albany, he currently works in telecommunications sales and has two school-age children.
Wanting to try something new during the pandemic, he created a dancer from butterfly wings for his daughter and instantly knew it was something special. As he made more pieces, he experimented with different media (cigar wrappers, flower petals, dried leaves, watercolor) and is always trying new things. Now his kids help create too!
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2017
Metamorphosis
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Several years ago, I visited Magic Wings in Deerfield, MA with my two kids.
Several years ago, I visited Magic Wings in Deerfield, MA with my two kids. Inside this warm, jungle conservatory, hundreds of butterflies (and moths) flutter around the guests in search of nectar and mates. After they live out their short lives, most of the fallen are eaten by the conservatory’s quail and fish that keep their small, rainforest ecosystem in balance. However, some of them are collected and their wings removed, preserved, and bagged up for sale in the gift shop. Knowing I’d eventually do something with the wings, I bought a bag.
2020
Alchemy
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Three years later, during the pandemic shutdown, I decided to make a dancer out of butterflies for my daughter.
It took me a couple of tries, but once I figured out the best way to achieve the look I was going for, the result was breathtaking and very much worth the painstaking effort of layering the delicate wings one at a time. I ordered more bags, made more art, and as I churned out gifts for friends and family, I could no longer ignore the many people who suggested I share it with the world. As I tried different techniques (cigar wrappers, flower petals, and dried leaves), the art evolved. The most exciting aspects of Frankenfly Art are its versatility and teachability. Students of virtually any age and ability can use simple coloring sheets and pre-cut stencils to make their own.
Now
Nurture
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I teach art classes at schools and community events, and I’ve always enjoyed working with children.
Their natural tendency to imagine, play, and create continues to inspire me. During college, I was a counselor at the before-and after-school program and summer camp. I’ve always found ways to volunteer my time for the community, particularly the youth. I was a Big Brother for 3 years and have attended numerous at the Double H Ranch in Lake Luzerne. I’m a volunteer firefighter, and in addition to training and responding to calls, I help educate children on fire safety, conduct fundraisers, and support other community events. Most recently, I joined the advisory board of the Best Buddies, NY Albany Chapter, where I hope to help guide their wonderful mission locally!