Meet Zara Murphy

Today we’re excited to be connecting with Zara Murphy again. If you haven’t already, we suggest you check out our prior conversation with them here.

Zara, we are so thrilled to be connecting again and can’t wait to hear about all the amazing things you have been up to. Before we jump into all of that, some of our readers might have missed our prior interview, so can you take a moment to reintroduce yourself?
Since we last spoke I actually rebranded my business and changed my name! Call me Zara 🙂

I’m the creative force behind Groovy Palettes Art & Design, based here in sunny San Diego. I’m a visual artist with a deep passion for creating vibrant, eclectic art that not only adds beauty to spaces but also brings people together in meaningful ways. My work is all about spreading joy, empowerment, and a touch of magic wherever it goes.

My creative style is influenced by so many aspects of my journey—spiritual concepts from yoga, the rich textures and colors of Moroccan culture, and the raw inspiration of Mother Nature. I also love exploring themes like female empowerment, mental health awareness, and even a bit of cosmic exploration. Art, for me, is not just about what you see—it’s about what you feel and how it connects us.

At Groovy Palettes, I offer a variety of creative services. I do live painting for events, which is such a fun and interactive way to bring art to life in real-time. I also design custom murals that transform any surface into a one-of-a-kind masterpiece. Beyond that, I help create unforgettable event experiences and provide interior design services that reflect the unique personality of a space or its people.

What sets me apart? I think it’s my ability to take a blank canvas—whether that’s a wall, a room, or an idea—and turn it into something vibrant and personal. My goal is always to create art that feels welcoming, inclusive, and empowering. I truly believe in the power of art to elevate not just spaces, but the people who experience them. There’s nothing more rewarding than seeing someone connect with what I’ve created.”

Awesome, so we reached out because we wanted to hear all about what you have been up to since we last connected.
Since we last connected, I have grown tremendously in the festival culture as a Live Painter. I am growing my community of fellow artists- both visual and performing. Being surrounded by so many vastly talented humans inspires my art and creative process, and I am learning so much from all these amazing humans.

I rebranded my website to target higher ticket clients and be visually more professional. I have been expanding my knowledge of events and design through my day job as a Corporate Event Designer, which has made me realize how much I love designing a space. I am working to expand my skills in interior decorating, and possibly get certifications in Interior Design. That all depends upon my time management and costs. My hopes is to be able to not only paint murals in a space, but provide styling services as well.

My struggles this year have been finding balance and staying focused. Running your own practice as a creative while having a full time job and a booming social life is no easy feat. I have a lot of passions, and keep wanting to take my art in so many places, its a challenge to know which path to take.

We have now arrived at one of our favorite parts of the interview – the lightning round. We’ll ask you a few quick questions to give us all some fun insights about you.

Favorite Movie: Dumb and Dumber

Favorite Book: Theres no book I would read twice, but I am currently loving the ACOTAR series.

Favorite TV Show: This is hard! Currently, The Boys

Favorite Band or Artist: I don’t really have one that sticks out in particular. Maddy O’Neal- she’s a DJ I love.

Sweet or Savory: Sweet

Mountains or Beach: Mountains

Favorite Sport (to watch): Rugby

Favorite Sport (to play): Rugby- but can no longer play since I broke my neck in college playing it.

Did you play sports growing up (if so which ones): Yes! Basketball, rugby, lacrosse (shortly), volleyball (for fun)

As a kid, what did you want to be when you grew up: An actress

French Fries or Onion Rings: Onion Rings

Chuck Rhodes or Bobby Axelrod: Who?

Favorite Cartoon growing up: Rugrats

Favorite Childhood movie: Matilda

Favorite Breakfast Food: Eggs Benedict

What are you most excited about in the coming year?
I am most excited about my motivation for growth. I have done so much work this last year, and my mindset is in a much better place for growth in my business this year. Doing the inner work is vital for success.

I am manifesting selling originals, getting mural gigs, growing in my community, and big artistic opportunities opening for me.

Website: https://www.groovypalettes.com

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/groovypalettes/

Image Credits
Megan Marie McMillan