In connection with the Martha’s Vineyard Museum’s current exhibit From Concept to Canvas: Selected Works of Stanley Murphy, noted Island artists and friends including Kib Bramhall, Tess Bramhall, Bob Doran, Allen Whiting and Rez Wiliams are coming together to discuss the painter’s life, work and influence at Thursday, August 5 at 5:30 p.m. at the Federated Church in Edgartown.

Led by the museum’s chief curator, Bonnie Stacy, the panel will give the audience an insight into the life of the Vineyard artist.

Stan Murphy (1922-2003) was an artist who captured the essence of the Island he loved in the faces of his friends and neighbors, the landscapes in which he lived and worked, and the animals that inhabited them.

Kib and Tess Bramhall call Stan a pivotal figure in their lives, first as a person, and second, to Kib, as an artist. Both say Stan’s integrity, intelligence and lifestyle were important factors in their decision to move to the Vineyard 30 years ago. Tess was Stan’s golf partner for over two decades. Both Tess and Kib served as portrait subjects for the artist they consider “the giant of the Vineyard art world.”

Bob Doran first attended one of Stan’s gallery openings three decades ago, but returned to the gallery many times. Over the years as they exchanged letters, Mr. Doran saw Stan as a private person who spoke with a smile.

Stan’s lifelong friend Allen Whiting remembers Stan’s wonderful sense of humor and how he used it to put others at ease and demonstrate acceptance.

Vineyard artist Rez Williams recalls Stan’s gallery openings every other summer; the artist was always absent. Stan would show up later that evening at Rez’s house with fresh lobsters he’d caught, fishing during the opening.

Following the discussion will be a reception at the Martha’s Vineyard Museum. Cost is $12, or $8 for members.