Case MacKeen (b.1977-)

Ryan MacKeen, widely recognized by his graffiti pseudonym "Case," stands as a preeminent figure in the realm of Canadian contemporary urban art. Hailing from the vibrant metropolis of Toronto, Case initially gained prominence as a remarkable street artist, leaving an indelible mark on the city's creative landscape. His street murals, bearing the distinctive graffiti tag "CASE," have been meticulously documented and featured in a plethora of books, magazines, online platforms, and documentaries.

Case emerged as a notable force during the graffiti renaissance of the 1990s in Toronto, significantly contributing to the elevation of the city's graffiti milieu to a position of legitimacy and recognition. Together with his contemporaries, he played a vital role in securing the acknowledgement and legality of numerous graffiti landmarks across Toronto. A graduate of Sheridan's esteemed Classical Animation program, Case seamlessly transitioned his artistic prowess into directing animated and live-action music videos for a slew of prominent recording artists.

As the 2000s unfolded, MacKeen's creative horizons expanded beyond the confines of graffiti, encompassing an eclectic array of themes such as landscapes, cityscapes, and portraits, all meticulously crafted using the medium of spray paint. This medium lends a distinctive character to his artistic technique, characterized by impressionistic dabs, ethereal blurs, and intricate drips of layered aerosol.

Throughout his diverse career, MacKeen's works have garnered national and international acclaim, gracing prestigious exhibitions including those at The Royal Ontario Museum, The Art Gallery of Ontario, Cutlog New York, The Carmichael Gallery of Contemporary Art Hollywood, and the Armoury Show NYC.

Currently calling Vancouver, British Columbia home, MacKeen draws profound significance from his diverse body of work. Although his artistic repertoire spans an array of styles and contexts, a unifying thread of purpose and meaning runs through each genre. His landscapes stand as vivid interpretations of the bustling urban landscapes of Toronto and Vancouver, while his cityscapes artfully capture the perpetual ebb and flow of humanity within modern urban centers. The portraits he creates pay homage to personal influences, encompassing revered graffiti artists from the 80s, former landlords, and distinguished Canadian celebrities.

Moreover, MacKeen's foray into 3D printed sculptures stems from the fertile ground of his experience as an animator and character designer in the realm of graffiti murals. This intriguing convergence of animation and urban art has birthed a captivating synergy, propelling his creative expression into a realm that marries multiple dimensions and forms.

Case’s odyssey is a dynamic narrative of evolution and innovation, a journey that reflects the evolution of graffiti from the streets to galleries, and an enduring dedication to capturing his impressions of contemporary urban existence in its myriad forms.

EXHIBITIONS

2022 Toronto ON, The Pandemic, Worth Gallery 2020 Toronto ON, The Protest, Worth Gallery 2020 Toronto ON, Personal Devices, the Run Gallery 2019 Toronto ON, The Parades, Hashtag Gallery 2018 Toronto ON, OMW Home, Ille Gallery 2018 Toronto ON, Hey Y'all, Only One Gallery 2017 Toronto ON, POP Transfer, Hashtag Gallery 2016 Toronto ON, Over The Shoulder, Gallery 50
2015 New York NY, The Armoury Show
2014 New York NY, Cutlog NY, Frieze Week
2013 New York NY, Kilowatt Gallery, Fountain Fair
2013 Toronto ON, Mischief Over, Twist Gallery
2012 Miami FL , Gallery 4, Art Basel
2012 Toronto ON, Best on Show, The Gladstone
2011 Pittsburgh PA, Exile on Dufferin, Gallery 4. 2009 Toronto ON, Shelter, Royal Ontario Museum,
2008 Toronto ON, Marc Ecko Unlimited, Street Art Expo
2008 Toronto ON, House Paint, Luminato
2008 Hollywood CA, Carmichael Gallery, Delirium Tremens
2008 Toronto ON, Manifesto, Well and Good Art space
2007 Toronto ON, Foundations, Whippersnapper Gallery
2007 Toronto ON, Ignite: Arts Forum, Gladstone Hotel Gallery
2005 Pittsburgh PA, Static Free, Space Gallery
2004 Amsterdam, Netherlands, Graffiti World, GO Gallery
2003 Toronto ON, Walsh/Mackeen, Here and Now Gallery
2003 Montreal, Ottawa & Toronto M16-War Child Canada
2003 Toronto ON,HYPE 3, Art Gallery Of Ontario
2002 Toronto ON, HYPE 2, Art Gallery Of Ontario
2001 Chicago IL, Diversity, 13th Floor Gallery
2000 Montreal QC, Out For Fame, Transart Gallery
2000 Toronto ON, Decked, Art Gallery Of Ontario
2000 Toronto ON, Activation, Art System, OCADSU
1999 Toronto ON, Case, James Allan Fine Art Gallery
1998 Toronto ON, Bombs Away, The Low Art Gallery