Artwork Description
Onward, Illinois! Silkscreen Print by Jay Ryan Hand-Pulled on Fine Art Paper Limited Edition Screenprint Artwork.
2013 Signed & Numbered Limited Edition of 230 Artwork Size 18x24 Silkscreen Print
Onward, Illinois! Silkscreen Print by Jay Ryan
Jay Ryan’s Onward, Illinois! silkscreen print is a celebration of movement, community, and artistic storytelling, blending his signature playful creatures with a uniquely structured composition. Created in 2013, this limited edition, hand-pulled screenprint captures the essence of street pop art & graffiti artwork, where vibrant characters symbolize the energy and resilience of Illinois. With its 18x24-inch format, the piece uses bold muted color tones and fluid linework, a hallmark of Jay Ryan’s artistic approach.
Symbolism and Artistic Style
This artwork presents a stylized map of Illinois, bursting with expressive animal characters that appear to be in motion, charging forward together. The dynamic arrangement of creatures, including rabbits, dogs, and abstract figures, conveys a collective sense of progress and unity. A notable feature in the composition is a single yellow flag held high, reinforcing themes of leadership, movement, and perseverance.
Ryan’s signature hand-drawn textures and organic lines enhance the visual depth, while the limited color palette of blues and greens adds a distinct character to the piece. The use of subtle shading and layered screenprinting techniques gives the print a sense of motion, creating an engaging and almost animated effect.
Street Pop Art & Graffiti Artwork Influence
Jay Ryan’s work has been an integral part of street pop art & graffiti artwork, blending DIY aesthetics with contemporary printmaking techniques. His bold linework, narrative-driven visuals, and use of animals as symbolic figures align with many of the themes found in modern street art. While his work is often associated with gig posters and independent art scenes, it also shares a common visual language with urban graffiti artists, who use symbolism and repetition to tell stories in public spaces.
This print exemplifies the crossover between fine art screenprinting and the raw energy of street art, making it a standout in contemporary poster design. Its hand-pulled nature and limited edition status add to its authenticity, reinforcing the importance of tactile, handcrafted art in an increasingly digital world.
Legacy and Cultural Impact
As a piece rooted in Illinois culture and artistic heritage, Onward, Illinois! serves as both a tribute to the state and a broader reflection on unity and perseverance. The print’s narrative of progress and shared journey resonates with collectors and street art enthusiasts alike, making it a sought-after addition for those who appreciate handmade, narrative-driven art.
Jay Ryan continues to influence modern screenprinting, independent poster art, and street pop aesthetics, ensuring that works like Onward, Illinois! remain highly regarded representations of contemporary visual storytelling.
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