Ryan Smithson
About the Artist: Ryan Smithson was an engineer in the Army reserves and served in Iraq from 2004-2005. He fortified military posts, built and 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. He currently works in sales for a software company supporting school transportation, and he regularly conducts school visits for his books. He has two children in elementary school — they are also artists!
Artist’s Experience: Ryan is excited about the opportunity to showcase his amazing talent and attention to detail through his butterfly wing art. About sharing his art he says, “It’s the process of creating it that I enjoy. I’m thrilled to let others enjoy the final product.”