Catherine Murphy, a renowned realist artist, presents a captivating exhibition at Peter Freeman’s gallery, showcasing her recent works that delve into the forces of scale, light, and perspective. In her painting “Double Bed,” Murphy skillfully captures the essence of everyday life by splitting the image into two panels, each depicting a different side of the bed with subtle details that evoke a sense of intimacy and familiarity. Through her meticulous attention to detail, Murphy transforms ordinary objects into profound reflections on human existence, inviting viewers to slow down and appreciate the beauty in the mundane.

As we delve deeper into Murphy’s world, we discover the intricate process behind each painting, from creating a replica of her own bed in the studio to experimenting with lighting conditions to capture the perfect moment. Her dedication to capturing the essence of a scene, whether it takes years or decades to materialize, is evident in works like “Under the Table” and “Bed Clothes,” where she masterfully plays with perspective and color to draw viewers into her meticulously crafted compositions.

Join us on a journey through Catherine Murphy’s evocative paintings, where each brushstroke tells a story and invites us to see the world through a new lens. Experience the magic of observation and interpretation as Murphy’s art challenges us to find beauty in the ordinary and contemplate the profound in the everyday.Catherine Murphy, an artist who defies traditional categorization, embarked on a unique artistic journey that led her to create captivating paintings that go beyond mere representation. In the 1960s, after realizing that the prevalent abstract style in the art world didn’t resonate with her, Murphy decided to start afresh and draw inspiration from the world around her. Her paintings, although influenced by photography and film, are not about capturing intricate details but rather about conveying a different kind of clarity and connection to the subject.

In her late 70s, Murphy’s dedication to her craft is evident in her meticulous process of creating each painting, such as “Still Living,” a portrayal of a damaged white pine on her property. Through thick layers of paint, she captures the essence of resilience not just in the tree but also in herself and the viewers. The intimacy and warmth exuded by Murphy’s paintings invite the audience to rediscover the beauty and significance in everyday scenes, echoing a sense of familiarity and belonging. Experience the profound storytelling of Catherine Murphy’s art as she invites you to reconnect with the world around you in a whole new light.