About Simon Murray: A Digital Art Journey
Early Beginnings
My journey unfolded across the UK, with a childhood roaming from Edinburgh’s historic alleys to Birmingham’s modern beat, punctuated by a year in Saudi Arabia. A ZX Spectrum, a cherished Christmas present from my father, sparked what would become a lifelong passion for computer games and the emerging world of digital art.
Discovering Digital Canvases
The Amiga era was a gateway to the digital arts for me, where Deluxe Paint allowed me to bring the bold characters of 2000 AD comics to life, setting the stage for my future endeavors in digital creation.
Artistic Education
My artistic fervor led me to Sutton Coldfield College of Further Education, where I delved into Fine Art and Design. This experience, enriched by a Bachelor’s Degree in Fine Art from Bristol University, only deepened my commitment to the arts.
A New Chapter in Berlin
The city of Berlin, with its vibrant culture and history, has been my home for over twenty years now. This inspiring metropolis not only embraced my creative aspirations but also shaped them in unforeseen ways. It’s here, among the storied streets and dynamic art scene, that I’ve put down roots and built a life intertwined with my craft.
Professional Pathway
The professional odyssey began at S.E.K Ost in Berlin, where ‘Wiggles’ and ‘Paraworld’ were the canvases for my expanding skills. It was here that I carved my niche as a Texture Artist, a path I’ve pursued with relentless passion.
With over two decades in the gaming industry, my portfolio is a chronicle of evolution, featuring titles like “Drakensang 1 and 2,” and the decade-spanning saga of “Drakensang Online.”
The Texture Collection
A personal project turned global resource, goodtextures.com was born from my pursuit of unique textures. Since 2006, the site has grown to offer over 30,000 textures, becoming a valuable asset to artists and the CG community.
A New Code of Creativity: Web Development
I recently expanded my digital toolkit by completing a one-year course in full stack web development. This venture into the world of coding has broadened my skill set, allowing me to blend technical expertise with my artistic vision.
Apparel Design: A Canvas of a Different Kind
In the crossroads of pixels and print, I discovered the joy of t-shirt and apparel design. This creative avenue allowed me to explore new expressions of art, turning wearable items into canvases that speak to both personal style and artistic identity.
Life Beyond Pixels
When not immersed in virtual landscapes, my world is filled with the pages of books, the discipline of Shaolin Kung Fu and Jeet Kune Do, and the adventures through series like Red Dwarf and Deep Space Nine.