Nancy Murty

Oil Painter | Birds & Landscapes

Nancy Murty grew up along Lake Ontario’s agricultural shores. Her artistic journey began at her grandmother’s kitchen table, drawing the birds that would become her lifelong passion. After years in advertising, she founded Bee Creative Studio. Then in 2013, she fully embraced oil painting. Today, she works from her Brighton studio—just a block from Ellison Park. There, she draws daily inspiration from Western New York’s natural beauty.

Over the years, Nancy’s work has earned prestigious recognition. These honors include the Fairfield Master Award for Contemporary Artistry at the International Quilt Market & Festival. She also received Best of Show at the Canandaigua Art & Music Festival. Additionally, her artistry has been featured on HGTV’s Simply Quilts and in Lark Books’ 500 Art Quilts. One piece was even selected for the cover.

“When you’ve held a bird in your hands, felt its heartbeat, seen how light plays across its feathers—you paint it differently. That intimacy changes everything.”

What sets Nancy’s paintings apart is her intimate knowledge of her subjects. As a volunteer at Braddock Bay Bird Observatory, she has carefully banded nearly every species she paints. This hands-on experience deepened both her artistic practice and her commitment to protecting wild places. Working from field studies and her own photographs, she captures nature’s fleeting moments. These include the quality of morning light, a bird’s momentary pause, and the ever-changing landscape.

Ultimately, collectors are drawn to Nancy’s bold use of color and expressive brushwork. These elements bring energy and life to each piece while celebrating the beauty we stand to protect.