31 January 2025
Interview with Owen Murphy of One Drop Design Studio
By Kevin Cranford, Communications Officer
MAPS Bulletin: Volume XXXIV
You may have already seen the two awesome cover art pieces for Vol 34 of the MAPS Bulletin – Astral Drift and Stoned Ape Trio – by Owen Murphy, the owner of One Drop Design Studio. Our Communications Officer, Kevin Cranford, interviewed Owen to learn about what inspired his design, how psychedelics influence his work, and what it means to be an artist.
What inspired the design for the most recent MAPS Bulletin cover? Were there specific themes or messages you aimed to convey?
The front cover was a combination of Terrence McKenna’s Stoned Ape Theory mixed with the “See no evil, hear no evil, speak no evil.” It was originally for a Billy Strings poster in Washington DC. Some of the themes I touch on outside of that were inspired by songs off the new album at the time.
Would you classify your art as psychedelic? If so, how do you interpret or define “psychedelic” in your work?
I would classify it as psychedelic and surrealist if I had to put a label on it. Some of my work is inspired by psychedelic experiences, themes of psychedelic culture and journey’s into my own subconscious. I cut my teeth on this line of work through the art and music of the late 1960s so it has a major influence on what I do and what I seek out.
Tour posters often blend music and visual storytelling—what’s your take on the connection between psychedelics, music, and visual art?
I’m sure it goes back to tribal rituals and drum circles or Dionysian ceremonies but in modern times, look at posters from the 60’s. Ken Kesey was throwing parties called the acid tests with bands like the Grateful Dead. Bill Graham and Chet Helm were putting on shows with the art we all know and love to promote it. That’s where my line of work comes from.
How did you start creating art for musicians and bands? Was there a particular moment or project that solidified your passion for this niche?
I learned about it in college. I always messed around with logos and flyers for local stuff where I lived. Music was always a major part of my life. Once I got introduced to festival and jam band culture I pretty much dove head first into that, making “lot art” and doing posters for local shows in Baltimore. It snowballed from there.
Do psychedelics play a role in your creative process? If so, how have they influenced your perspective as an artist?
I’m sober when I’m working on commission pieces from clients. I barely smoke weed anymore compared to a previous life. A couple times a year I’ll go on a vision quest to clear the cob webs. When doing so, I’ll bring a sketch book to doodle the energy out. These experiences mostly help me get through some mental blocks so I can get out of my own way. They’re more of a spiritual tool for me now with the goal of being the best version of myself which includes my current role as an artist.
Your work includes everything from tour posters to company logos. How do you balance the functional aspects of design with creative expression?
14+ years in and I’m fortunate enough to have clients that trust the process. In some ways I have to do the same.
As you continue working in this space, what excites you most about the evolving intersection of art, music, and psychedelics?
I’d say I’m most excited about exploring the process itself, being enthusiastic about it and just pushing it forward. Music is an art so I enjoy discovering new artists and how all my discoveries and favorites push themselves to be better at what they do. As far as psychedelics go, I like how they’re being more embraced from a medical standpoint for different treatments in mental health and other areas.
Owen Murphy
Owen Murphy is a versatile and dynamic artist known for his vibrant, eclectic style that blends elements of pop culture, surrealism, and psychedelia. His works often feature bold colors, intricate details, and imaginative borders that invite viewers into his mind.
From a young age he drew inspiration from a wide range of sources, including comic books, street art, and contemporary pop culture. This unique fusion of influences has garnered him a growing and diverse audience, from art enthusiasts to collectors who appreciate his ability to transform everyday subjects into compelling illustrations.
Murphy has collaborated with various bands and brands, highlighting his versatility and appeal. He is constantly experimenting with new techniques and themes to keep his art fresh and engaging. His commitment to his own growth and innovation makes him a standout figure in the contemporary art scene.
Kevin Cranford
Kevin Cranford serves as Communications Officer for MAPS. Kevin earned his bachelor’s and master’s degrees from Morgan State University, the premier HBCU in Baltimore, Maryland. After an early career spent at ESPN and ID Discovery working as a production assistant, Kevin comes to MAPS after a decade in the legal services field, traveling the country’s courtrooms as a trial presentation consultant.
But drug policy has always been his passion.
While in Maryland Kevin spent years as a cannabis advocate and organizer in the DMV area, working with Maryland NORML, the National Cannabis Festival, and the Minority Cannabis Business Association. Now he is excited to bring his passion for communications and drug policy here to MAPS!
Outside of his professional life, Kevin enjoys hiking and ultimate frisbee, music, and his United Statues of America accounts. He lives in the suburbs of Connecticut with his wife and two sons.
