Karen Murphy is an Australian production designer, now based in the United States. Originally trained in architecture, her transition to film was solidified by her work on Baz Luhrmann’s Moulin Rouge, which sparked her commitment to the industry. She has since art-directed major films like The Chronicles of Narnia: The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe, Australia, and The Kite Runner, the latter earning her multiple Art Directors Guild nominations.
Murphy has had a longstanding collaboration with Luhrmann and Catherine Martin, working on The Great Gatsby and Elvis, both of which earned her recognition from BAFTA, the Art Directors Guild, and the Academy Awards. Her production design credits extend to films like A Star Is Born, Queen & Slim, The Light Between Oceans, and Chevalier. Most recently, she worked on Maggie Gyllenhaal’s The Bride (of Frankenstein), currently in post-production. Karen Murphy’s creative expertise extends beyond film, as she continues to collaborate on commercials and engage in interior design and creative direction, further showcasing her versatility in visual storytelling.