Maria Murphy’s practice is grounded in contemporary figurative painting, drawing on imagery from everyday life, historical artifacts, social media and her own street photography. Expressive brushstrokes and colorful palettes create sensation and atmosphere, with color acting as a central element that adds a satirical edge to her work. Sketchbooks play a vital role in her process, serving as a space for visual thoughts and afterthoughts that later find their way into her paintings.

Since relocating to Stockholm in 2014, Murphy has exhibited in Sweden, Ireland and Australia. Her oil paintings have gained international recognition and have been featured in publications such as Architectural Digest, Elle Decoration, By Rum, The Irish Independent and The Sunday Times Magazine. Her work is represented by retailers across Sweden, the UK and Ireland, and is collected widely throughout Europe and the United States.

Maria Murphy (b. 1987 in Ireland) lives and works in Stockholm. She studied Fine Art Painting at the Limerick School of Art and Design, followed by a Higher Diploma in Art and Design Education, and is also a graduate of Hyper Island’s Digital Creative program.