Immerse Yourself in the Artistry of Michael Murphy

Welcome to the world of Michael Murphy, a Scottish artist whose brushstrokes capture the essence of Scotland's mesmerizing landscapes and far beyond. From his studio in Ardrossan, overlooking the serene Isle of Arran, Michael crafts paintings that are a testament to the beauty of light and colour in our world.

From Classical Roots to a World of Colour

Michael's artistic journey began at Leeds Metropolitan University, where he honed his skills in ceramics from 1977 to 1981. Despite this classical training, Michael considers himself largely self- taught in his current medium. His transition from ceramics to the vivid world of painting marks a shift towards a more introspective and exploratory style. Michael's canvas is not just a medium but a gateway to his inner thoughts about the world — from the transient beauty of a crashing wave to the subtle shifts in light around a cold winter cabin.

A Canvas of Emotions and Moments

Each of Michael's paintings is a narrative in itself, a moment captured in time, provoking curiosity and emotional response in the viewer. His work transcends the mere representation of a location; it's an exploration of fleeting moments and the visceral reactions they evoke. As he often says, "Once a scene starts to 'read' on the canvas, I like to distort certain areas to ignite the mind in a painterly way."

Philosophy that Shapes the Brush

Michael adheres to certain mantras that have guided his artistic voyage. "Art is about knowing what mistakes to erase and which to keep", and "It is not an artist's job to represent reality as it is", are principles that resonate through his work. His favourite, "An artist need not know how to explain his art any more than a flower needs to know how to explain horticulture", reflects his belief in the innate, indescribable power of art.

A Global Palette

Michael's artistic footprint extends well beyond the Scottish borders, with his travels through Scotland, Spain, and Australia greatly influencing his palette. His work, ranging from figures to seascapes, consistently features striking contrasts — from well-worked greys to striking pinks. His exhibitions in Scotland, Spain, and Australia, along with an extensive list of private collectors worldwide, speak to the universal appeal of his art.

Join the Artistic Journey

We invite you to delve deeper into Michael Murphy's world. Explore his gallery, visit his exhibitions, and follow his journey on social media. Experience the interplay of light and color through his eyes, and discover how each painting tells a story, evoking emotions and sparking curiosity. Welcome to the captivating world of Michael Murphy, where every brushstroke is a conversation with the canvas.