Sterling Ruby's artistic journey in the 1990s laid the foundation for his multifaceted career, blending diverse mediums and thematic explorations. While there isn't a wealth of information specifically detailing Ruby's work from the 1990s, examining his broader body of work and influences provides insight into the formative years of his practice. Ruby's oeuvre is vast and varied, incorporating ceramics, painting, drawing, collage, sculpture, video, and textiles. His work often reflects on societal issues, incorporating themes of violence, urban decay, and psychological spaces. For instance, his ceramic works are known for their thick, vivid glazes and charred surfaces, drawing inspiration from the California craft movement, German "hot lava" vessels of the 1970s, and art therapy sessions. These pieces frequently resemble primitive forms, such as baskets or body parts, and are marked by a sense of rugged immediacy​ (Wikipedia)​. Ruby's paintings, particularly his SP series, utilize a hallucinogenic palette achieved through spray paint, evoking urban graffiti and the territorial markings of gangs. This work speaks to social violence and the erasure of identity through layers of public expression, revealing Ruby's interest in the sociological aspects of urban environments​ (Wikipedia)​. He has also explored video and large-scale installations, like his public works and soft sculptures, which range from monumental outdoor pieces to intimate, fabric-based forms. Ruby's public sculptures invite interaction and often confront the viewer with their inscribed surfaces, which become canvases for communal expression and critique​ (Wikipedia)​. Sterling Ruby's collaborations extend beyond the traditional art world, particularly in the realms of fashion and design, where he has worked closely with designer Raf Simons. This partnership has yielded numerous projects, from clothing collections to the redesign of flagship stores, highlighting Ruby's versatile approach to creative expression and his interest in the intersection between art and everyday life​ (Wikipedia)​. Throughout his career, Sterling Ruby has remained committed to experimenting with materials and themes, consistently pushing the boundaries of contemporary art. Although specific details about his work in the 1990s are scarce, his later achievements reflect a profound engagement with the cultural and material fabric of society, marking him as a significant figure in the art world.