RYAN A. SMITH (b. 1973) is a painter and sculptor specializing in western art. Ryan 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 and western wildlife such as the wild horses that he would regularly encounter while fishing on the Salt River.

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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 sculpting and 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 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.

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Ryan A. Smith is a member of the Oil Painters of America; his Shows and Awards include Oil Painters of America: 2024 Online Showcase Fall Award Winner, CM Russell Art Auction: 2022, 2024 and 2025, and Mountain Oyster Club Contemporary Western Art Show and Sale: 2021.  Ryan has been featured in outdoor magazine publications and channels including  MidCurrent (the most popular fly-fishing channel), Virginia Sportsman, and Blue Ridge Outdoors.  Mountain Trails Gallery Sedona is proud to welcome spirited Western paintings by the talented Ryan A. Smith.