An Interview with Mur
An artist, composer, and director with a new show coming out this week.
In true Mur form, the New York City-based artist is sure to make waves tonight. If you’re just familiarizing with his work, I suggest you start with the song we needed about Santal 33 or this unforgettable play he produced for Susan Alexandra. His newest (and highly anticipated) show has been teased on Instagram with snippets of songs and vocals that are sure to make you FEEL something. Ahead of opening night, I asked him a few questions about what to expect, what he hopes to bring us with WONDERS OF THE WATER, and just, you know, what he’s really into right now. Enjoy.
Photo by @johnnykompar.
When did you begin working on this show? What has the process been like?
MUR: WONDERS OF THE WATER is the second part of a four-part musical performance art piece. I began writing WATER shortly after we finished presenting the first chapter: CHILDREN OF THE EARTH (in July 2021). Each chapter represents a different element.
Photo by Victor.
Composing for me is always an intense process. Every morning I ask the gods to use me their vessel. Muses, spirits, and energies enter my body and write through me. In many ways, these songs are not mine- they are the songs of the water; the crabs, the polar bears, the mermaids, the seals, the rain, the ice, the old man and the sea.
What is WONDERS OF THE WATER about?
MUR: It is a series of musical and operatic vignettes inspired by elemental beings of the water.
What do you hope to communicate through this series of shows?
MUR: Historically, during times of great despair - we cling to things that offer a sense of hope. If we can believe in fairies and mermaids then we can believe anything is possible. There is more than the human eye can see, but you have to believe.
What energizes you the most about bringing a show to life? What gets you going?!
MUR: I am incredibly inspired by New York City; there are mermaids and fairies everywhere you turn. Just the other day, I walked into a cafe on Baxter street and was transported into another dimension. I got a sponge cake and a thai hot tea. This energizes me.
Artwork by MUR.
What are three things you're really into right now? (Can be ANYTHING)
MUR: Anna Delvey, Charlie (a lionhead rabbit), vegan jerky from Orchard Grocer.
What is one thing you'd tell a creator who is just getting started with their craft, or just gaining the confidence to put their work out into the world?
MUR: Better and worse don’t exist. Good and bad don’t exist. Judge nothing, follow your heart, tell the truth. Learn how to dissociate when people tell you what they think of your art.
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Learn more about Mur’s work here and here, and buy tickets to his show, WONDERS OF THE EARTH. Live in NYC March 10th, 11th, and 12th.