Originally commissioned for Hammerton Brewery’s Mexican Cake Stout, this illustration draws its visual energy from the sweeping opening sequence of the 2015 film Spectre. Ryan begins his process with physical ink on paper, establishing a textured foundation that feels grounded and intentional before moving to a Wacom Cintiq for digital coloring. The resulting landscape balances the bold lines of craft beer branding with the intricate details of a cultural procession, creating a scene that feels both lived-in and highly stylized.

The composition centers on the iconic skull imagery associated with the Day of the Dead, framing the contemplation of mortality within a spirit of communal joy. By focusing on the pageantry of the festival, Ryan highlights the intersection of historical tradition and modern media. The work avoids the sterile feel of purely digital art, instead retaining the organic imperfections of hand-drawn lines to honor the depth and warmth of the celebration it depicts.