2025 portfolio
Anthony J. Murray Steffens, born July 17, 1970, in San Juan, Puerto Rico, is a lawyer turned self-taught artist whose life transformed through painting three years ago. Despite no formal art training, his journey reflects resilience, beginning after a sudden onset of deafness, tinnitus, and depression following personal tragedies, including his mother’s tragic death. Art became his therapy, helping him confront buried traumas and find peace, even as he continued his legal career. Murray believes art is universal, uniting people and unlocking hidden talents, and he stands as proof of its healing power.
His introspective works, rich with philosophical and social themes, use metaphors and symbols to explore life’s big questions. Inspired by Jean Dubuffet’s “Art Brut,” he employs diverse materials like acrylics, oils, and resin. Murray debuted “Open Your Mind” in May 2023 at Guatibiri Gallery, selling out without promotion, followed by the successful “Introspection” exhibition in November 2024, encouraging self-examination. A large crowd flocked to Murray’s exhibitions, widely regarded as two of the most triumphant showcases in the prestigious 52-year history of Guatibiri Gallery. His work has been acquired by top art collectors. Featured in La Tarima Magazine, Primera Hora newspaper, and recently Modo de Vida Magazine, titles like “Break Free,” “Fried Eye,” “One World,” “The Silent Majority,” “Teen Angst,” and “Elevator to Heaven” reflect his emotional depth, inspiring others to express their stories fearlessly.