As we welcome Brendan Murphy to Whistler Contemporary Gallery, we had the chance to ask him a few questions about the inspirations and ideas that shape his work. From translating emotions into beauty, to bringing his painted characters into three dimensions, to the personal experiences that find their way into his art, Brendan shares an open glimpse into his creative journey. Read on as he reflects on symbols, family life, and the excitement of debuting his work with a new audience here in Whistler.

View Brendan Murphy's Work HERE

What first drew you to creating art at the intersection of beauty and meaning?

I find the emotional journey we’re all on fascinating. I like to take feelings and emotions from that journey and put them into my work. If I get it right, I can create something truly beautiful.

How do you choose between painting and sculpture?

All of my sculpture concepts start from original works on canvas. I love the idea of bringing those characters off the canvas and into three dimensions. Seeing them come to life that way is pretty cool.

How do you hope viewers engage with symbols, language, and universal themes?

I don’t think about viewers when I’m making my work. I create to satisfy my own sense of what something should look like. How others see it and interact with it will always vary. That’s the beauty of art: people hear music differently, see paintings differently. It’s not my job to steer them in any direction. Of course, I’m aware of the effect my work has had on audiences, but I try not to let that influence what I create next.

What part of your life shows up most in your work today?

I’m in a healthy, strong marriage and raising three young children. I spend my days and nights making things nobody really “needs,” and those formulas and equations you see in my work are my way of navigating this incredible adventure we call life. I’ve got plenty of experience and material to draw from.

What response do you hope for at Whistler Contemporary Gallery?

I haven’t really shown in this region before, so I’m excited to share my work with a new audience and see how they respond.

View Brendan Murphy's HERE

We are delighted to showcase Brendan Murphy’s work at Whistler Contemporary Gallery. We invite you to experience his paintings and sculptures in person — and if a piece speaks to you, our team of art consultants will be happy to assist.