Ryan McCann Takes On Koons

Returning for his 3rd RUN, we have seen Ryan McCann in his fiery debut with Death To Banksy as well as his actual fiery debut with the blowtorched multiples You Don’t Get To… As he returns Ryan brings us the second installation in his Death To… series as this time he takes out the incomparable Jeff Koons in one of his own creations. Check out the teaser video below and read on for our exclusive interview with Ryan in the latest 1xRUN Thru Interview…

1xRUN Thru Interview
Death To Koons by Ryan McCann

1xRUN: Tell us how the idea and execution of this piece came about? When was the original piece created and with what materials?

Ryan McCann: This is number 2 in a series of works that has become the “Death to…” series. The first was “Death to Banksy” which became a popular piece so when the idea of memorializing more of my favorite artists came about this specific image came to mind. The original painting is oil and acrylic on masonite and it was done in 2012.

1xRUN: How long did the piece take? 

Ryan McCann: I normally work pretty quick especially when I am using my blowtorch, but I felt this piece needed to be done in color to fully communicate the idea. So, back to your question, it took about a month to complete, which tested my patience.

1xRUN: What is unique about this piece?

Ryan McCann: The interesting thing about Koons is he states there is no irony in his work, so I though it would be fitting if he was killed by his work in an ironic way. His work referenced in the piece are Hulk Elvis, vaccum cleaners, equilibrium series, and a foiled plot to blow up his “Puppy”. Sometimes your work kills you.

1xRUN: Why should people buy this print?

Ryan McCann: Because it will help you negotiate. Just watch the video.

1xRUN: Describe the print in one gut reaction word for us.

Ryan McCann: pretty.

Death To Koons by Ryan McCann

1xRUN: Do you listen to music while you work? If so what? If not then what is your environment like when you work? 

Ryan McCann: I am on an old school country kick right now listening to Waylon Jennings, Merle Haggard, Townes Van Zandt and the first few records by George Strait and Willie Nelson.

1xRUN: If you could collaborate with any living artist who would it be and why? If you could collaborate with any deceased artists who would it be and why?

Ryan McCann: This “Death to…” series has giving me an opportunity to collaborate with my favorite artists, thought they don’t know it. I enjoy studying their work and exploring the ideas that come of it.  Unfortunately the “Death to…” series is limited to only living artists but if there ever is a “Resurrection of …” series I would start with Marcel Duchamp and Rene Magritte.

1xRUN: What else do you have currently in the works?

Ryan McCann: I am cranking away in the studio getting ready for a solo show at the Black Square Gallery in Miami, and a solo at LA Art Core in Los Angeles. And if I can get clearance from the Fire Marshall I will be at the TED conference in Orange County next month.

-1xRUN