Artist Kyle Ragsdale grew up in Texas and New Mexico, witnessing from a young age a mix of vibrant cultures and large, wild spaces. Since earning degrees from Baylor University (BFA) and Southern Methodist University (MFA), Kyle has been painting full time, working periodically as a decorative painter and stage set designer, and making fine art. He has curated exhibits in Texas and Indiana and has served as curator for the Harrison Center, Indianapolis since 2002.

Kyle’s work has changed many times—the paint has been thick, thin, shiny, and flat. He often delves into decorative floral patterns, landscapes, and portraiture. Many times, people featured in his paintings are enjoying the beauty of community, sharing life at picnics or parties. Sometimes formal, sometimes casual, these signature figures and their often ambiguous settings always leave room for interpretation; like an open-ended novel, relationships and meanings are found in the viewer’s gaze.

Kyle is currently in his 8th season of creating paintings for the Indiana Repertory Theatre and has created several murals in public spaces around Indianapolis. His work has been shown in galleries locally and nationally, and is frequently featured on HGTV’s Good Bones.