Snapshot: Ryan Buchanan
Occupation: I went to school for graphic design and that’s what I do. I freelance for private parties and small firms. I’m also a fine arts artist and sell those works, too.
Family: I have an older sister, Alex, and a younger brother, Scotty. My mom, Diane, and my dad, Scott, live in Newtown.
Pets: I don’t have any pets. My sister and I always joke that we wanted a pet, but we got a little brother instead.
How long have you been in Newtown? I grew up in Newtown. I went to St Rose School and am a graduate of Newtown High School, Class of 2008.
What do you like to do in your free time? I’m very close to my brother, and I have a great group of friends here, so if I’m not busy with my art, I like being with my friends and family. I do spend a lot of time with my painting, mostly doing very Modern and abstract pieces. Movies have always been a big thing for me. It’s something I enjoy. And I’m always pretty much listening to music.
What music do you listen to? I’m open to listening to everything, but all kinds of rock music — classic or alternative. Kind of whatever I come across at a specific point in time.
Do you have a favorite travel destination? My parents have always traveled with us. Some places I’ve really enjoyed visiting have been in the Western part of the US. One of my favorite places was a trip to Alaska. I’m an outdoors kind of person. It was a beautiful place — the land, the animals, a natural kind of place.
What is the best thing about Newtown? It’s a great little town. Everybody is connected to everybody in one way or another. My group of friends has grown over the years, and that’s really nice. Newtown is a “homey” kind of place.
Who has been the greatest influence in your life? I have an incredible family, but I would say my little brother. We’ve been best friends our whole lives. He’s one of a kind, and a really, really smart kid. He’s always right there and we have great times.
What was your favorite toy as a child? I was really into Legos for a long period of my life. I’d build what they were supposed to be, and then just go off and create something else. I still have buckets and boxes full of them.
Do you have a guilty pleasure? My mom is Italian and big into food, so I grew up on that. Her food is one thing I go to for a treat.