A Long Island father has turned a simple lunchtime ritual into a transformative art form that has not only delighted his daughter but also revitalized his own life. Ryan Wosleger, known as the “Snack Bag Dad,” began his artistic journey during the pandemic, discovering the joy of creativity through packing lunch for his children. This newfound passion has allowed him to reconnect with his artistic side while bringing happiness to his family.
Before the pandemic, Wosleger spent 17 years in the insurance industry, feeling increasingly disillusioned and unfulfilled. “I would compare it to treading water. I was not moving very fast, very far. I was working really hard, but I was not fulfilled,” he explained. Despite his creative ideas, he often felt stifled in a corporate environment that undervalued innovation.
When the COVID-19 pandemic struck in March 2020, Wosleger found himself at home, struggling with anxiety and depression. It was during this time that he began drawing with his daughter, Briar, while preparing her lunch. “The light bulb moment was drawing with my daughter. I noticed that she was coming home happier,” he shared. This simple act not only brightened Briar’s day but also reignited Wosleger’s passion for art.
Creative Transformation
Wosleger’s journey into art blossomed as he began using brown paper bags as canvases for his creations. With each doodle, he made lunch a delightful experience for Briar. “When I started creating art with my daughter, she was starting to listen to me, and I realized, my voice is being heard,” he said. This connection with his daughter motivated him to pursue a master’s degree in art education, a significant shift from his previous career.
Now, Wosleger teaches children and parents across Long Island how to transform ordinary lunch bags into extraordinary works of art. Through his efforts, he has inspired many families to embrace creativity in their daily routines. Briar, now the star of her cafeteria, beams with pride as she shares her father’s artistic creations with her friends. “When you go to school and you pull out your lunch bag, what do your friends say?” a reporter asked her. “Oh my god, your dad is such a good artist. It makes me feel amazing,” she responded while hugging her father.
Wosleger’s dedication to his art is evident in how he cherishes every piece he creates. “I keep every single bag I give to my daughter. I will put together a book, and I’ll give it back to her, and I hope that she will be a ‘snack bag mom,'” he said. This commitment to preserving their shared moments highlights the profound impact that creativity can have on family relationships.
As parents around the world prepare for their children to return to school, Wosleger’s story serves as a reminder of the power of art to foster connection and joy. His transformation from a corporate worker to an enthusiastic artist exemplifies how pursuing one’s passion can lead to greater fulfillment and happiness.
