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Rala is proud to carry works from Tennessee artist Ryan Blair. His works are funky, colorful, and representative of the American South. https://shoprala.com/collections/ryan-blair

Ryan Blair is a triple threat. He teaches kids at Claxton Elementary School in Anderson County, TN, is Dad to three adorable children, and maintains his own professional art practice.

Blair uses salvaged materials and colorful paint to create works that speak to the spirit of the Tennessee hills. Subjects like snake-handlers, country musicians, winged mules, and moonshine-sippers often show up in his funky pieces. These are a few works available now at Rala.

"Art is soothing for me -- It's a place where there's no right or wrong answer," he told Cityview Mag back in 2015. As an art educator at rural elementary schools, he strives to teach this freedom to others.

"I don't necessarily feel like I'm just teaching art. I'm teaching a lot of life skills and people skills and hopefully how to enjoy things," he said. "I've hopefully made several people's lives more interesting or thoughtful or happy that day."

Blair is often up late, working hard in his studio. He posts process photos and updates on his work through his Facebook and Instagram. Follow him to keep in the loop about what he's creating and upcoming art shows.

Rala: Regional and Local Artisans, 112 W. Jackson Ave, Knoxville, TN 37902. Information: 865-525-7888, https://shoprala.com. Instagram: @ShopRala