Sophie Ryder is a contemporary British artist best known for her sculptures of anthropomorphic animals and mythical creatures. She was born on August 15, 1963, in London, England, and grew up in the nearby countryside. Ryder studied at the Royal Academy Schools in London and went on to complete a postgraduate degree in printmaking at the Royal College of Art. Ryder's work is known for its imaginative and whimsical quality, as well as its use of unconventional materials. She often works with bronze, wire, and found objects, creating sculptures that range in size from small tabletop pieces to large outdoor installations. Her work has been exhibited at major galleries and museums around the world, including the Victoria and Albert Museum in London, the Tate Gallery in Liverpool, and the Whitney Museum of American Art in New York. In addition to her sculpture, Ryder is also an accomplished printmaker and has produced a significant body of work in this medium. Her prints are characterised by their intricate detail and delicate line work, often featuring images of animals and birds. Ryder has received numerous awards and honors throughout her career, including the Jerwood Sculpture Prize in 1995 and a commission to create a public sculpture for the London 2012 Olympic Park. She continues to live and work in London, where she is represented by the Pangolin London gallery.