Deirdre Murphy – Migratory Paths at URBN at the Navy Yard
Deirdre Murphy – Migratory Paths at URBN
Written and photographed by Laura Storck
The concept of the symbiotic relationship between art and science is nothing new – many would affirm that it has been in existence since the dawn of time. Many artists and scientists (perhaps one in the same?) have studied the relationships and potential intersections of these phenomena (DaVinci, Seurat, and Hershel, to name a few).
Deirdre Murphy – Migratory Paths at URBN at the Navy Yard
The brain ambidexterity that informs the esoteric outlook of those fortunate enough to possess those qualities still pervades. Deirdre Murphy is a contemporary artist whose work is influenced by the connections between art and science, as can be seen by one of her current exhibitions, “Migratory Paths”, is currently on view at URBN at the Navy Yard. This series explores the migratory flight patterns of birds and how they may be affected by climate change. Her abstract works are extremely eye-catching, attractive, and thought-provoking her with use of bright colors, geometric shapes, and repetition.
Deirdre Murphy, The Boundless (2012)_silkscreen and mixed media on paper, at URBN at the Navy Yard
Deirdre Murphy, Synchronized Formation (2012), silkscreen and mixed media on paper, at URBN at the Navy Yard
According to a recent interview with PennDesign about a summer residency a Hawk Mountain Sanctuary, Ms. Murphy explained that:
“The collective intelligence of flocking birds and the unpredictable patters have been a source of inspiration to me. I wanted to work directly with the Hawk Mountain Scientists and ask the how global warming has changed the raptors migratory flight patterns and then to see how I might translate that information into paintings.”
Deirdre Murphy, Flamingo, 2008, oil on canvas, at URBN at the Navy Yard
In case you weren’t aware, I should mention that I’m an artist and scientist myself. I have a great fondness for the use of bold pigments, as well as a natural affinity towards the cleanliness and mechanics of simple lines and angular structures. This sensibility applies not only in my personal design preferences and photographic compositions, but in life itself.
Deirdre Murphy, Libra (2015), gouache on paper
Pigeon Flight (2009), oil on canvas, Deirdre Murphy at URBN at the Navy Yard
I engaged with this beautifully celestial and otherworldly exhibit on it’s opening day, and after some pondering, I concluded that “Migratory Paths” not only applies to migratory patterns of birds, but to all lifeforms. To my chagrin, I had received a polite yet disappointing email that day that I did not land a coveted job that I desperately wanted, also located at the Navy Yard, and was feeling quite crestfallen. On that bright and warm afternoon, Ms. Murphy’s art spoke to my resilient self in URBN’s sleek headquarters, and expressed to me that nature endures, perseveres, and maneuvers along it’s own migratory path, and we must follow our instincts to find our way.
Deirdre Murphy at URBN at the Navy Yard
I highly recommend everyone to take a flight of fancy to URBN to see this exhibit in this amazing and ethereal space. Enjoy a light lunch at Shop 543 or a warm cup of java at Jharoka while taking a gander at the Ms. Murphy’s artwork with the zen feeling of the nearby koi pond just a few steps away. “Migratory Paths” are works on paper that span from 2010-2015 and will be on display at URBN until December 7, 2015.
Deirdre Murphy, Dome of the Sky (2010), silkscreen on paper, at URBN at the Navy Yard
Written and photographed by Laura Storck
Laura Storck Photography ARTIST. SCIENTIST. PHOTOGRAPHER. ROCK STAR.: https://laurastorck.wordpress.com/
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Twitter: @Laura_Storck
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Mystification, 
