ART OF RONIN
About the Artist
Created in 1994, Studio Ronin produced its own unique blend of design and concepts. Under the direction of Christopher Shy, Studio Ronin created its own in-house effects studio, and began working in film building miniatures, producing concept art as well as costume design, and visual design. In 2000 Studio Ronin began its most ambitious project of producing its own intellectual properties, starting with Silent Leaves.
Publishing only graphic novels, Christopher Shy soon set a certain tone to the work. "No single issues, only complete books, we do them our way, and we run it like a book company." Silent Leaves became Studio Ronin's first book, followed by Man To Leaves, and with Michael Easton, the acclaimed Soul Stealer trilogy. Other books include Pathfinder, which was made into a film; Ascend with Keith Arem; Good Apollo:; I am Burning Star IV for Coheed and Cambria, (Studio Ronin completed stage design for the band that following year); Silent Leaves Exceptions To Life; Dead Speed; and City On The Edge of Sleep. In 2010, Christopher Shy and Studio Ronin completed Deadspace: Salvage.
In 2004 Studio Ronin gave its first large scale gallery exhibition of Christopher Shy’s tempera originals, some over 8 feet tall. The paintings were shown in Chicago at Echo Gallery, and the exhibition was held over for one year. Christopher Shy's work is now on permanant display in Chicago at Gallery Provacateur.
In 2006 Studio Ronin began working in advertising. Clients include Nike, Harley, Mitsubishi and others. Its imagery was "fresh, dark, and daring." Film posters followed, as well as print ads - all taken in a different approach while continuing to write, create, and publish its own brand of IP. In 2008, Studio Ronin licensing was born, and Christopher Shy's images were reproduced under his careful direction on skateboards, snowboards, t-shirts, and jackets. Christopher Shy accepted an award in Italy for Artistic Excellence in 2010. In 2011, Soul Stealer was named book of the year.
Studio Ronin has carved its own path - creating an image of what an independent art studio can be, and redefined the doors that should be open for the small, masterless studio. A unique vision to the work of both the entertainment world, and fine art.