Bridge Talk Vol. 2: (Artist) Ronson Swanson

In Volume 2 of Bridge Talk: The People Behind Graffiti Bridge, we sit down with muralist Ronson Swanson, a name you’ve probably seen or debated on the bridge walls.

Known for bold imagery and even bolder messages, Ronson’s work doesn’t just ask for attention—it demands conversation. From provoking thought to provoking controversy, he walks the line between art and activism, wielding a spray can with fearless intent. This feature explores what fuels his vision, how he handles the heat, and why he believes graffiti has a role to play in public discourse.

What’s your artist name and how did it come to be?

I go by Ronson Swanson, I had a friend I used to work with call me Swanson for years. Years ago I did a piece and got a bunch of very threatening messages online and thought it would probably be better to use a pen name to better organize some of the nonsense. Also I like parks and rec.

When did you first paint The Graffiti Bridge? 

Wow, probably in the late 90s

What does the bridge represent to you as an artist?

The bridge is a lot like life, ever-changing constantly evolving sometimes happy sometimes pretty crummy. When I paint there I know that it will be painted over usually within hours of me finishing my piece and there's some kind of beauty to that. Nothing is forever so you should leave a mark every chance you get.

Do you have a favorite mural you’ve painted here?

The memorial piece for my friend Stewart Beck is my favorite thing I've ever done there.

 

Your murals often push boundaries. What draws you to controversy or strong messaging in your work?

I feel like if you see something that you don't agree with or you think is wrong and you don't say anything then you're part of the problem.

Have you ever received backlash or strong public reactions? How do you handle it?

Only when I do political stuff, which is wild because I believe both of our mainstream parties are about as useful as wheelchair pedals. Tribalism definitely runs deep and when you speak out against someone's belief structure they tend not to use logic when they message you lol. I feel like if some paint that I smeared on some dirty old concrete on a bridge get you so in your feelings that you want to look me up message me and let me know how you feel then I've done my job. That's the greatest compliment that you can give an artist whether it good or bad something I created has touched you in a way that you had to react.

Is there a message or topic you’ve always wanted to paint but haven’t yet?

Absolutely, it'll get there eventually I just have to find the right way to present it.

Where do you draw the line—if ever—when it comes to provocative art?

Definitely, I would never paint something that I feel would intentionally cost somewhere harm whether it be mental or physical. There is enough of that already.

Do you see your murals as activism, art, or both?

No I don't see them as activism and depending on my mood most days not even art, I  use my painting to fill the Gap when my words fail to convey the message.

Do you ever feel pressure to explain your work, or do you prefer people interpret it for themselves?

I usually try to let my work speak for itself, how often that works out depends on the piece

🎧 Behind the Paint

What’s your mural process like—planning vs. freestyling?

I try to plan but most times life happens.

What’s your go-to soundtrack while painting?

This is pretty dependent on the piece, if I have my headphones in it's more than likely East Coast hip-hop

Favorite paint brands, caps, or tools?

Molotov it's always my first choice. If not I'll go with Montana or whatever's on hand. If I'm in a crunch I'll grab some Ironlak. 

Describe graffiti in 3 words.

Art blooms eternal

Where else can people find your art or connect with you?

You can find me on Instagram @RonsonSwanson