It takes a skilled hand to capture the lively energy of Hooplandia in a commemorative mural, which is why the task has been given to the talented Ryan “ARCY” Christenson for the last two years. He is best known for his large-scale street art and paint-splashed style, and he has been honing his craft for more than two decades.
The Connecticut-born ARCY has created hundreds of murals and permanent works throughout North America, Australia and Europe. He has worked for The Smithsonian Institute, Major League Baseball, America’s National Parks Service and, most recently, The Walt Disney Company.
Throughout Hooplandia 2023 and 2024, ARCY developed murals in real time that drew on details from basketball’s modern story in Greater Springfield. He told our story through his art, so we asked why he participates in Hooplandia to help us tell his.
ARCY said, “My basketball story began during the Chicago Bulls/Michael Jordan Dynasty Era of the ‘90s. Before finding my true wheelhouse in the arts, I participated in team sports for Parks & Rec basketball leagues and summer basketball camps throughout my early childhood years. The game taught me teamwork, discipline and resilience, many of the life skills I utilize today as a professional artist.
“I also grew up attending Eastern States Exposition events each year. As a Connecticut native, [The Big E] was a must, and I anticipated it each fall. As I entered adulthood and my art career and portfolio developed, I gathered the courage to present my works to ESE’s offices and began what would become an amazing collaborative friendship in the years to come. The opportunities to create on the grounds where Hooplandia is held, such as implementing my take on a colorful revitalization of the side of the iconic and majestic Coliseum, have become memories I will always cherish.
“Hooplandia celebrates the spirit of basketball, and that brings communities together. Doing what we love inspires others, and I am honored to join in on the celebration as I share my love for art and the game.
“Having attended the past two years at Hooplandia as a live spray can artist, I can honestly say that what I enjoy most is meeting the guests in attendance. These participants have so much dedication and drive, and I am truly inspired by them. Seeing their focus in action encourages me to apply myself in a whole new way as I give back through public art,” ARCY concluded.
ARCY has left his mark on the Northeast’s Ultimate 3x3 Basketball Tourney + Festival, and the wider Eastern States Exposition through his generosity and creative vision, and we look forward to seeing him again.