Figure Painting & Drawing
about
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My figure work holds a deeply personal place in my practice—it’s where I feel I’ve developed my most distinct style. I’m currently working on a new body of work composed of ten large-scale oil paintings, each one continuing the visual approach I first cultivated through years of colored pencil studies.
That time spent refining my technique—particularly during college figure painting and drawing classes—taught me how to find shape within the human form through shadow and highlight. The discipline and repetition of that process helped me arrive at a uniquely personal style, one that now translates into my oil painting practice.
These upcoming works reflect that evolution, using layers upon layers of oil paint—often 15 or more—to build figures that feel dimensional, fluid, and alive.
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I exclusively paint the female form. The energy and power held within the feminine body are what I strive to express through sensual movement and intentional brushwork. The magnetism a woman holds when she enter a room is undeniable. I want my figures to hold the viewer’s attention with that same power—to exude motion and grace while feeling deeply grounded in their presence.
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Each painting is an exploration of the figure in motion. I aim for my subjects to feel like they’ve just paused mid-step or movement. On average, these pieces take me 30 to 50 hours to complete.
These pieces are the most precious to me, and moving forward, I plan to make them the center of my artist career.
All figure works are available for purchase upon request.
Figure drawing has always been a foundational part of my practice and is essential to my development as a figure painter. In college, I spent over 10 hours each week drawing from live models—an experience that deeply sharpened my understanding of anatomy, form, and movement.
Below are a selection of studies from that time.
Info
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All artworks are named and signed on the back of the canvas.
All original artwork orders will include a handwritten note from myself.
All paintings are sealed and varnished to protect the artwork, but due to the delicate nature of oil paintings, I would still recommend keeping the painting out of direct sunlight, away from moisture, and ensure it is handled with care.Shipping:
When you buy an original artwork from me, it will be packaged and distributed by myself.
Artworks are packaged in sturdy boxes and packed with bubble wrap to ensure safe arrival of your painting.
Orders will be fulfilled and posted out within 3 days of your order.
I will send you an email with the tracking information.
If the postal service is unable to deliver your order for any reason, and therefore returned to sender, you can request a refund (minus the original shipping fees) once the painting arrives back with me, or I can re-ship your painting (you are responsible for additional shipping charges).
I am not responsible for any damage that may happen during transit (although I’ve never had a problem with shipping because of how careful I wrap the work) However, if your item does arrive damaged, please email me at jordanemurphyart@gmail.comwithin 5 days of delivery and include clear photo evidence of the damage and I will always try to find a suitable solution. -
Print Info
Prints are made using giclee printing, ensuring the highest quality, archival standard of print.
The paper used is 250 gsm fine art paper.
With its weight and strong texture this paper gives the artwork a handmade crafted feel.When you buy a fine art print, it will be packaged and distributed by myself. Prints are packaged in a plastic sleeve and sturdy envelope lined with bubble wrap. They are shopped flat in order to prevent damage. You will receive an email with a tracking reference once your order is shipped. Prints are made to order please allow up to 5 business days before prints dispatch.
If your item arrives damaged, please email me at jordanemurphyart@gmail.com within 5 days of delivery and include clear photo evidence of the damage. For prints, a replacement will be issued. For original paintings, I will work with you to assess the issue and find a suitable solution.
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I’ve been making art for as long as I can remember. It started with drawing Godzilla monsters alongside my brother, then recreating comic strips like The Far Side and Garfield during childhood. By middle school, I was designing handmade cards for every occasion, and in high school, I became fascinated with wet, fluid imagery—things dripping, submerged, or melting. But throughout it all, I was most drawn to the human figure, especially the female form.
I feel deeply compelled by the energy from the human figure—how it holds movement, presence, and fluidity even in stillness. In my work, I focus on translating that vitality through color and shape, building form with layered gestures rather than perfect outlines. The figure feels alive when constructed this way—shifting and expressive.
During college, at the University of Kansas, I was obsessed with my life drawing and painting seminars—both taught by the same professor. Coolest man to walk the planet. He taught me how to see the figure, break it down into shapes, and develop my own style. He also introduced me to oil paint, the medium he worked in himself, and because of that, I transitioned my own practice into oil. Now creating large-scale oil paintings that emphasize movement, color, and form through the female nude.
