bio
bio
Meet Gary T. Murphy, aka “GTM”
Gary T. Murphy, known as "GTM," is a self-taught abstract artist whose work pulses with raw emotion, bold colors, and intricate designs. Based in the Dallas area, GTM’s art is more than just visual -- it’s pure happiness and joy. But, it is also a visceral experience, a cathartic release of pain, loss, and resilience. Each piece he creates is a reflection of his life’s journey, a vivid tapestry woven with threads of joy, sorrow, life’s ups and downs and the unyielding hope that emerges from the ashes of adversity.
A Life of Many Chapters
Born and raised in Houston, Texas, Gary’s path to artistry was anything but direct. For nearly three decades, he poured his energy into building businesses—Houston Court Services, Mach 5 Couriers, Arisa Global, 6 Degrees Lounge, and Little Soya—navigating the highs of success and the depths of profound loss. Failed ventures, heartbreak, and the passing of loved ones shaped his journey, turning pain into fuel for creativity. Through his art, he found a way to process life’s challenges, transforming struggle into expression.
Before entrepreneurship, Gary worked as a doorman and floor manager at some of Houston’s most iconic nightclubs—Homage, Red Square, 2826, Spy, and M Bar. He also spent a decade as a licensed private investigator, exploring the complexities of human nature. But through it all, one thing never changed—his need to create. Art became his sanctuary, his release, and his way of transforming life’s highs and lows into something beautiful.
A Journey in Every Brushstroke
GTM’s art is a visual narrative where bold colors and intricate layers create movement and emotion. His pieces reflect his journey while forging a connection with others. “Life can be challenging and full of negativity. If my work brings even a bit of joy to someone, I’ve done my job,” he says. More than abstract, his paintings tell stories -- echoes of resilience, painted with hope. Each piece invites viewers to connect, feel, and discover their own meaning within the layers.
Art with a Purpose
For Gary, art is more than self-expression—it’s a lifeline. It’s how he attempts to help others and truly bring moments of joy and happiness back into this oftentimes chaotic world we’re all in. But it’s also how he spreads light. His mission is simple yet profound: to uplift, inspire, and offer viewers a moment of reflection and connection. Each painting is a testament to the power of resilience—a reminder that even in the darkest moments, beauty can emerge.
Beyond the Canvas
Gary’s life beyond the studio is as vibrant as his art. Having explored China, Japan, Korea, Thailand, Europe, the United Kingdom, Mexico, Canada, and the Netherlands, he draws inspiration from the richness of diverse cultures. His journey has been anything but ordinary—he’s survived eight near-death experiences, walked the Great Wall of China twice, and even spent hours lost in downtown Shanghai. These adventures, along with life’s triumphs and challenges, certainly help add depth and meaning to his work.
When he’s not painting, Gary finds joy in life’s simple pleasures—cooking, spending time with his loyal pup, Shadow, and paying it forward. Family is at the heart of everything he does, and he cherishes moments with his loved ones: Cousin Claire, his father Bill, mother Dolores, brother Mike, sister Gena, and beloved Aunt Bertha. He’s especially proud of his niece, Marisa, who’s off at Baylor—Go Bears!
Fun Facts About GTM
Founded seven companies over 27 years
(5 failures & 2 successes).First job: pizza dough boy at Anthony’s Pizza & Subs, Memorial City Mall.
Commentated professional boxing matches in Las Vegas.
Robbed at a Whataburger drive-thru -- and lived to tell about it.
Met Michael Jordan, Clyde Drexler, Dennis Rodman, Charles Barkley, and Carmen Electra all in one night (Jordan was the nicest!).
Passionate about cooking, exploring new cuisines, and sharing meals.
Could eat Phở Gà every day.
Experience the World of GTM
Gary T. Murphy’s art is more than just a collection of pieces—it’s an invitation to feel, to heal, and to connect. Explore his creations and discover the joy, bright colors, and energy that define not only his work but his approach to life. Through every brushstroke, GTM reminds us that even in the face of pain, there is beauty, and even in the midst of loss, there is hope.
CONTACT INFO
Gary T. Murphy, Artist / Entrepreneur
All social media: @GTMsArtWorld

Meet Gary T. Murphy, aka “GTM”
Gary T. Murphy, known as "GTM," is a self-taught abstract artist whose work pulses with raw emotion, bold colors, and intricate designs. Based in the Dallas area, GTM’s art is more than just visual -- it’s pure happiness and joy. But, it is also a visceral experience, a cathartic release of pain, loss, and resilience. Each piece he creates is a reflection of his life’s journey, a vivid tapestry woven with threads of joy, sorrow, life’s ups and downs and the unyielding hope that emerges from the ashes of adversity.
A Life of Many Chapters
Born and raised in Houston, Texas, Gary’s path to artistry was anything but direct. For nearly three decades, he poured his energy into building businesses—Houston Court Services, Mach 5 Couriers, Arisa Global, 6 Degrees Lounge, and Little Soya—navigating the highs of success and the depths of profound loss. Failed ventures, heartbreak, and the passing of loved ones shaped his journey, turning pain into fuel for creativity. Through his art, he found a way to process life’s challenges, transforming struggle into expression.
Before entrepreneurship, Gary worked as a doorman and floor manager at some of Houston’s most iconic nightclubs—Homage, Red Square, 2826, Spy, and M Bar. He also spent a decade as a licensed private investigator, exploring the complexities of human nature. But through it all, one thing never changed—his need to create. Art became his sanctuary, his release, and his way of transforming life’s highs and lows into something beautiful.
A Journey in Every Brushstroke
GTM’s art is a visual narrative where bold colors and intricate layers create movement and emotion. His pieces reflect his journey while forging a connection with others. “Life can be challenging and full of negativity. If my work brings even a bit of joy to someone, I’ve done my job,” he says. More than abstract, his paintings tell stories -- echoes of resilience, painted with hope. Each piece invites viewers to connect, feel, and discover their own meaning within the layers.
Art with a Purpose
For Gary, art is more than self-expression—it’s a lifeline. It’s how he attempts to help others and truly bring moments of joy and happiness back into this oftentimes chaotic world we’re all in. But it’s also how he spreads light. His mission is simple yet profound: to uplift, inspire, and offer viewers a moment of reflection and connection. Each painting is a testament to the power of resilience—a reminder that even in the darkest moments, beauty can emerge.
Beyond the Canvas
Gary’s life beyond the studio is as vibrant as his art. Having explored China, Japan, Korea, Thailand, Europe, the United Kingdom, Mexico, Canada, and the Netherlands, he draws inspiration from the richness of diverse cultures. His journey has been anything but ordinary—he’s survived eight near-death experiences, walked the Great Wall of China twice, and even spent hours lost in downtown Shanghai. These adventures, along with life’s triumphs and challenges, certainly help add depth and meaning to his work.
When he’s not painting, Gary finds joy in life’s simple pleasures—cooking, spending time with his loyal pup, Shadow, and paying it forward. Family is at the heart of everything he does, and he cherishes moments with his loved ones: Cousin Claire, his father Bill, mother Dolores, brother Mike, sister Gena, and beloved Aunt Bertha. He’s especially proud of his niece, Marisa, who’s off at Baylor—Go Bears!
Fun Facts About GTM
Founded seven companies over 27 years
(5 failures & 2 successes).
First job: pizza dough boy at Anthony’s Pizza & Subs, Memorial City Mall.
Commentated professional boxing matches in Las Vegas.
Robbed at a Whataburger drive-thru -- and lived to tell about it.
Met Michael Jordan, Clyde Drexler, Dennis Rodman, Charles Barkley, and Carmen Electra all in one night (Jordan was the nicest!).
Passionate about cooking, exploring new cuisines, and sharing meals.
Could eat Phở Gà every day.
Experience the World of GTM
Gary T. Murphy’s art is more than just a collection of pieces—it’s an invitation to feel, to heal, and to connect. Explore his creations and discover the joy, bright colors, and energy that define not only his work but his approach to life. Through every brushstroke, GTM reminds us that even in the face of pain, there is beauty, and even in the midst of loss, there is hope.
CONTACT INFO
Gary T. Murphy, Artist / Entrepreneur
All social media: @GTMsArtWorld

Meet Gary T. Murphy, aka “GTM”
Gary T. Murphy, known as "GTM," is a self-taught abstract artist whose work pulses with raw emotion, bold colors, and intricate designs. Based in the Dallas area, GTM’s art is more than just visual -- it’s pure happiness and joy. But, it is also a visceral experience, a cathartic release of pain, loss, and resilience. Each piece he creates is a reflection of his life’s journey, a vivid tapestry woven with threads of joy, sorrow, life’s ups and downs and the unyielding hope that emerges from the ashes of adversity.
A Life of Many Chapters
Born and raised in Houston, Texas, Gary’s path to artistry was anything but direct. For nearly three decades, he poured his energy into building businesses—Houston Court Services, Mach 5 Couriers, Arisa Global, 6 Degrees Lounge, and Little Soya—navigating the highs of success and the depths of profound loss. Failed ventures, heartbreak, and the passing of loved ones shaped his journey, turning pain into fuel for creativity. Through his art, he found a way to process life’s challenges, transforming struggle into expression.
Before entrepreneurship, Gary worked as a doorman and floor manager at some of Houston’s most iconic nightclubs—Homage, Red Square, 2826, Spy, and M Bar. He also spent a decade as a licensed private investigator, exploring the complexities of human nature. But through it all, one thing never changed—his need to create. Art became his sanctuary, his release, and his way of transforming life’s highs and lows into something beautiful.
A Journey in Every Brushstroke
GTM’s art is a visual narrative where bold colors and intricate layers create movement and emotion. His pieces reflect his journey while forging a connection with others. “Life can be challenging and full of negativity. If my work brings even a bit of joy to someone, I’ve done my job,” he says. More than abstract, his paintings tell stories -- echoes of resilience, painted with hope. Each piece invites viewers to connect, feel, and discover their own meaning within the layers.
Art with a Purpose
For Gary, art is more than self-expression—it’s a lifeline. It’s how he attempts to help others and truly bring moments of joy and happiness back into this oftentimes chaotic world we’re all in. But it’s also how he spreads light. His mission is simple yet profound: to uplift, inspire, and offer viewers a moment of reflection and connection. Each painting is a testament to the power of resilience—a reminder that even in the darkest moments, beauty can emerge.
Beyond the Canvas
Gary’s life beyond the studio is as vibrant as his art. Having explored China, Japan, Korea, Thailand, Europe, the United Kingdom, Mexico, Canada, and the Netherlands, he draws inspiration from the richness of diverse cultures. His journey has been anything but ordinary—he’s survived eight near-death experiences, walked the Great Wall of China twice, and even spent hours lost in downtown Shanghai. These adventures, along with life’s triumphs and challenges, certainly help add depth and meaning to his work.
When he’s not painting, Gary finds joy in life’s simple pleasures—cooking, spending time with his loyal pup, Shadow, and paying it forward. Family is at the heart of everything he does, and he cherishes moments with his loved ones: Cousin Claire, his father Bill, mother Dolores, brother Mike, sister Gena, and beloved Aunt Bertha. He’s especially proud of his niece, Marisa, who’s off at Baylor—Go Bears!
Fun Facts About GTM
Founded seven companies over 27 years (5 failures & 2 successes).
First job: pizza dough boy at Anthony’s Pizza & Subs, Memorial City Mall.
Commentated professional boxing matches in Las Vegas.
Robbed at a Whataburger drive-thru -- and lived to tell about it.
Met Michael Jordan, Clyde Drexler, Dennis Rodman, Charles Barkley, and Carmen Electra all in one night (Jordan was the nicest!).
Passionate about cooking, exploring new cuisines, and sharing meals.
Could eat Phở Gà every day.
Experience the World of GTM
Gary T. Murphy’s art is more than just a collection of pieces—it’s an invitation to feel, to heal, and to connect. Explore his creations and discover the joy, bright colors, and energy that define not only his work but his approach to life. Through every brushstroke, GTM reminds us that even in the face of pain, there is beauty, and even in the midst of loss, there is hope.
CONTACT INFO
Gary T. Murphy, Artist / Entrepreneur
All social media: @GTMsArtWorld
