Bridgeman Studio artist Carlton Murrell is a Barbados native who relocated to New York City and received training at the Arts Students League at the age of 18. Carlton's works reflect vividly the interaction between his Caribbean heritage and stylistic fondness for European Impressionism.

A frequent recipient of awards, prizes and citations, Carlton reveals to us thoughts on his career, working methods and inspirations from his environment.

Carlton working in his studio / photo credit: Carlton Murrell

What is your earliest memory of an artwork and who was it by?

My earliest memories of an artwork were experienced during my teen years while attending an exhibition by the artist, Hector Whistler. He migrated from England and lived in my birth country, Barbados. Any piece of his artwork was extraordinary.

Talk us through a day in the studio of Carlton Murrell. What's your routine?

My day in my studio is filled with many activities. I would group finished paintings together for review. Sometimes some editing is necessary in order to make changes to improve pieces. This could take several hours at a time. Further, into the day, I could be working on 2 or 3 paintings. Never allowing myself to overuse the time on one piece since if painting in oils, it is necessary to allow some time for drying between sessions. Another familiar routine is making some sketches that would lead to new work.

What is your favourite time of day to be in your studio?

My favorite times of the day to be in my studio are the hours of 10 am – 4 pm because I get the best light of the day during these hours. This is very important for me when painting.

How would you sum up your practice in 3 words?

Nostalgic, Successful and Fulfilling

Thinking / Carlton Murrell / Bridgeman Images		Wash Day / Carlton Murrell / Bridgeman Images

What did you spend your first art-sale pay check on and how did you feel?

I spent my first art sale paycheck on art supplies. I felt excited and elated that I had my own money to purchase supplies and did not have to ask my father for any money.

There is such care taken into bringing life the personalities in your paintings. Who are the people in your paintings? How do you choose a subject?

The people in my paintings vary; sometimes I call on family members or friends to model for me and at other times I go out with my sketch pad and/or camera and choose a random persons I find very striking and interesting to paint. Subject matter also varies. For instance, I can be commissioned to paint a portrait or while sketching and taking pictures in and outdoors I will search for ideas.

Is there a friend, family member or place that most inspires you artistically?

Nature inspires me the most; the more rustic and unspoiled in its natural beauty works best. Also, people who exhibit lots of personality inspire me artistically.

Which other artists, dead or alive would you choose to have dinner with?

Renoir, Rembrandt, Monet, Howard Sander, Richard Schmid and Dean Mitchell.

What brought you to Bridgeman for the licensing of your artwork?

I met a representative from Bridgeman nearly 15 years ago at an exhibit of my art. This meeting led to a discussion, and a business relationship developed.

 
See all of Carlton Murrell’s images available for licensing

Visit Carlton Murrell's website

The Big Catch / Carlton Murrell /  Bridgeman Images