LA-based artist Gretchen Ryan has created new portraits of child beauty pageant contestants. Ryan started her career by painting her friend's children, and in search of new models began frequenting children's beauty pageants. Over the years, Ryan has developed close relationships with her models, and their families, often painting the same girl throughout her childhood. Ryan approaches her lushly layered canvases with deep respect for her models, and uses traditional portraiture techniques to capture golden ringlets, sparkling rhinestones, layers of tulle, and their bright, competitive spirits. Ryan's paintings reflect society's obsession with youth and beauty, and have quickly become a favorite of Hollywood celebrity elite.
Going beyond straightforward portraiture, Ryan's work is informed by personal and cultural influences including her dedication to animal rights, 18th century British portraiture, Coast to Coast radio shows, nature publications, and children's fairy tale illustrations. Ryan's portraits successfully combine personal and societal subtext with the purity and beauty of youth.