Meet Leslie Murphy

We had the good fortune of connecting with Leslie Murphy and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Leslie, why did you pursue a creative career?
I am one of those few people who knew what they wanted to be when they grew up and never waivered. Being an artist was never a question for me. I always knew that was what I was meant to be, and I honestly cannot imagine having chosen a different career path. I chose to prioritize a joyful life. That I’m able to pay my bills while in pursuit is a blessing.

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
I try to make art that reflects my values as a person, and I hope that is what helps to set me apart as an artist. I have to say that I am most proud of my two memorial portrait series, honoring lives lost to gun violence and then to covid. Each series is comprised of 35-40 portraits drawn entirely with text describing lives lost. I wanted to convey the reality of who these people were, that they were not just numbers. I wanted to highlight the real lives of those lost, and to help those grieving by supporting them through art. These series of portraits were inspired in part by my own personal losses and a deep understanding of grief. This was a huge undertaking and after a while it had taken a toll on my own mental health. Once I had completed all promised portraits I had to move away from making artwork that required me to absorb so much sadness and pain. While there was joy in helping others find a little peace and through my artwork, it was all just too much. In order to complete the covid series I had to learn to reach out to my own community of artists for help. The last few portraits of this series were collaborative efforts with my students. I also had to learn to say no, and prioritize my own mental well being. I am now focused on making work that brings me joy. I am currently working on a series of portraits of women I admire, and another series of portraits depicting adults making silly faces and painting them with obnoxiously bright colors. I hope others know that I wear my art on my sleeve and make work that reflects my moral compass.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
If I were giving a tour of Atlanta I would have to start with the High Museum. As an Atlanta College of Art alumni, the High holds a special place for me as part of the Woodruff Arts Center. I spent countless afternoons wondering the halls of the High and adore their permanent collection. There’s usually something cool to see at the Alliance theatre too. Next I would have to visit Fellini’s pizza because their pizza is legendary. I would probably follow that up with a trip to Fernbank. And of course Ponce City Market is always worth a visit.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
I would like to dedicate my shoutout to the Johns Creek Arts Center. I have been teaching painting here for 18 years and it has really become a home away from home. There is such a wonderful community of artists and art enthusiasts that I have been fortunate to share my passion with. I have had the great pleasure of teaching so many artists from as young as 4 to as old as 98 and have watched them grow in their own artistic practices, while learning much from them all the while. Teaching helps to reinforce core painting principles and challenges me in new and exciting ways almost every day. I leave each class happy and inspired by my amazing students. The JCAC staff and director have also been instrumental in my success as an artist. These incredible women have supported my artistic endeavors and helped facilitate many opportunities for my career growth. I am so grateful to be a part of this vibrant arts community.

Website: lesliemurphyarts.com

Instagram: @lmurphyarts

Facebook: lesliemurphyarts