Maria Murphy is a predominantly self-taught Irish artist whose mesmerizing creations have found their way into books, book covers, and have been licensed by various companies. The main themes of Maria's artwork span from the ethereal spirit realm to the whimsically strange, creating a unique blend that captivates and intrigues. Her work is best described as atmospheric, dark, and eerie, transporting viewers into a world where the mystical and the peculiar come alive. Her love for fantasy art began as a child, captivated by the enchanting illustrations in Ladybird fairytale books. The whimsical worlds and vibrant characters sparked her imagination and set her on a lifelong journey of artistic exploration. Today, Maria draws inspiration from a multitude of sources: the works of other talented artists, the magic of fantasy films, the beauty of everyday life, and the poignant contrast of life and death. Each piece she creates is a fusion of these influences, woven together with her unique vision. Maria creates fantastical worlds and enchanting characters using a diverse array of media. Her digital art and photo manipulation works are brought to life through the intricate use of Paint Shop Pro software. For traditional art, she often turns to the precision of graphite pencils and the vibrant hues of Polychromos color pencils. In addition, Maria enjoys the rich textures and depth that oil paints offer. Photography is another one of her passions, capturing moments and scenes that inspire and inform her artistic visions.
