Ryan Lee Dorman
he/him
Denver, CO, USA
I’m Ryan Dorman, a queer student artist currently pursuing a Bachelor of Fine Arts at Metropolitan State University in Denver, Colorado. My work bridges the gap between object making and image making, as I engage with both metalsmithing and photography to explore themes of identity, visibility, and personal narrative. Growing up queer in the evangelical South deeply influenced my artistic perspective. Much of my practice focuses on reclaiming presence in spaces where identity has been hidden or imposed. My hope is to start conversations and invite viewers to discover deeper connections through the materials and imagery I create.
“In Christianity, symbols like the apple and nails serve as tools to reinforce faith. The apple, representing original sin, temptation, and forbidden knowledge, is paired with nails from the crucifixion of Christ to explore the paradox of faith – both uplifting and oppressive. By transforming these symbols into a ball gag, the apple restricts speech, embodying submission, while the nails metaphorically pin down the overbearing nature of religion. Pleasure, acceptable only within the framework of devotion to God, becomes intertwined with feelings of shame when sought beyond those boundaries, revealing the tension between devoted faith and the freedom experienced by those who explore beyond religious constraints.”
How does your work relate to the theme connection?
“‘Untitled (Gagged)' is relative to my connection with my queer identity in light of my religious upbringing. This work pulls inspiration from the tethered bout with conversion therapy I carry with me. The silencing allowed insecurity to root itself. A suppression of my authentic self allowed me no voice, chocking on temptation and reinforced by the weight of sin.“
"Untitled (Gagged)", paper print, 20" x 24", 2024 What role does connection play in your creative process?
“My connection to self is the driving factor of my craft. Healing my inner child and grounding myself in authenticity all are products of the connection I have with myself. Revisiting memories of my childhood and juxtaposing them onto my adult body provides ground for ideation.“
"Untitled (Gagged)", brass, bronze, apple 7.5” x 7.5”, 2024What connection(s) does your queerness make to the world around you?
“Being connected to my queerness allows me to move through time with confidence and authenticity. Bringing this truth self to my community allows for deeper connections as well as an opportunity for those exploring their identity to see that living in truth is possible.”