Brian Murphy
Murphy’s landscapes are painted on location in true plein air fashion, with the goal of capturing a specific moment in time and place. Working outdoors allows him to respond directly to light, atmosphere, and changing conditions, creating paintings that reflect the lived reality of contemporary life.
Biography
Brian Murphy received formal training in fine art and illustration at the Savannah College of Art and Design, where he was inspired by the Impressionists and developed his approach to impressionistic oil painting. While in school, he refined his skills in oil painting and began focusing on landscape work grounded in direct observation.
Murphy’s landscapes are painted on location in true plein air fashion, with the goal of capturing a specific moment in time and place. Working outdoors allows him to respond directly to light, atmosphere, and changing conditions, creating paintings that reflect the lived reality of contemporary life.
In the studio, Murphy creates elegant still life paintings using flowers, fruits, and everyday objects. Studio time also provides space to explore new techniques and ideas on a larger scale, resulting in work that emphasizes energy, movement, and life.
Recognition & Awards:
2019 Blowing Rock Plein Air – 1st place (non-professional category)
2019 Savannah Plein Air – Honorable Mention
2019 Sautee Plein Air Experience – Award of Excellence
2019 Sautee Plein Air Experience – 2nd place – Quick Draw competition
2021 Sautee Plein Air Experience – Award of Excellence – Quick Draw Competition
2022 Savannah Plein Air – 2nd place
2023 South Port Plein Air – People’s Choice Award
2023 Blowing Rock Plein Air – 2nd place
2025 Blowing Rock Plein Air – Honorable Mention
Artist Statement
“Don’t copy nature to literary. Art is an abstraction. Derive it from nature as you dream in nature’s presence and think more about the act of creation than the outcome.”
-Paul Gauguin