About the Artist

Bryan Ko is an Asian American digital artist from the Bay Area and will soon be graduating with a Bachelor's Fine Arts in Digital Media Art. He first started his art journey in high school, learning photography and videography. Upon his arrival to San Jose State University, he’s learned many new skills such as 3D modeling and further enhancing his skills in video editing and photoshop. His work is inspired by video games and things that he has grown up with. He creates fun and comedic artwork while focusing on self development as an artist. Instead of using his real name in his work, he goes by his artist name, Rya Sprouts or Sprouttess.

Break Point

Lots of people want and like living a quiet life or even the same day over and over again because it is the best feeling. Every day feels the same: being happy with friends, filled with laughter, and with no problems at all throughout the day. I’m one of those people. I have the same specific routine I follow each day. I wake up, get ready to go out, go to class, and then hang out with my friends. My friends always see me as the chill and energetic guy, but what they don’t see is something toxic and locked up. Sometimes things don't go according to plan, and the day becomes different. In the back of my mind, I hear thoughts that become too loud. They’re not great ones either. My smile begins to break down and so does my mind. Scared that my friends will find a darker side of me, I isolate myself so I don’t lash out. I try to hide the cracks, but eventually something slips out and explodes. It leaves a lingering scene that replays, making me break down and feel like I’m going insane. But then I wake up, from a dream that felt real.