Ryan Sherwood Gourley May 16, 1953 – July 9, 2024

Ryan Sherwood Gourley of Laguna Beach, California passed away on July 9, 2024, at the age of 71. He was born on May 16, 1953 in Lynwood, California, son to Betty and Donald Gourley.

Ryan was a gifted painter and extraordinary artist whose creativity, ingenuity, and generous spirit touched the lives of many. A truly brilliant and unique creator, Ryan was known for not only his excellent paintings, but also for his ability to turn “Trash to Treasure”, as he crafted much of his work from found and recycled materials. Ryan helped pioneer Brother Art, OurGang Pottery, Sherwood Gallery, Sherstuff Soft-Sculpture, Red Cat Hats, and a hemp clothing line, working in nearly every artistic medium imaginable. Ryan left an indelible influence on the historic art colony of Laguna Beach. In his 55 years exhibiting at the Sawdust Art Festival as a founding member, he built many award-winning booths, designed several Sawdust posters, installed unforgettable displays, painted murals, and mentored a body of artists who are honored to carry the torch of his artistic legacy.

He is survived by his loving wife Kelly, his daughter Amber, his son Mikhail, his brother Roark, his sister Rachel, and a host of family and friends who will miss him dearly.

A private funeral service will be held at O’Connor Mortuary in Laguna Hills.

Friends and Family are invited to join in a Celebration of Life on Sunday, August 4th from 8:00-10:00 PM at the Sawdust Art Festival grounds in Laguna Beach. We invite you to bring a dish for a potluck meal and join us in a service remembering Ryan.

If you would like to send flowers, please have them delivered to O’Connor Mortuary by August 1st to be displayed at both the private service and the Celebration of Life ceremony. O’Connor Mortuary is located at 25301 Alicia Pkwy, Laguna Hills, CA 92653 and can be reached by phone at +1 (949) 581-4300.

Ryan’s recent painting of Iao Needle on Maui reflects his deep desire to help the victims of current events. We hope to host an event in the future to include a fundraiser for Maui on behalf of Ryan.

Please view Ryan’s video at https://drive.google.com/file/d/1QRegf7HIr8wAExsy6lMMquaQogJmlOJx/view?usp=drivesdk