about our artist
Paul Anthony McPhee is an American artist from Southern California, now residing on Martha's Vineyard, known for his marine life artwork, particularly inspired by the movie *Jaws*. His fascination with *Jaws* began with his first visit to Martha's Vineyard in 2005 for Jawsfest 2005, where he worked as a licensed artist with Universal Studios. This experience deepened his connection to the island and its maritime themes, influencing his subsequent work.
McPhee has created numerous original oil paintings and prints depicting iconic scenes from *Jaws*, such as the opening scene with Chrissie Watkins' attack and the boat chase sequences. His artwork often features detailed portrayals of sharks, boats, and the ocean under moonlight, reflecting the film's dramatic tension. Notable pieces include "The Great Chase" and "The Party Crasher," available as signed and numbered prints, as well as larger works like a 24x12 oil painting from the 2012 Jawsfest, which fetched significant attention and value. He has also produced unique items like the "Bruce Busts," resin shark head sculptures, and contributed to collectibles like the limited-edition *Jaws: Memories from Martha's Vineyard* book.
His work has been showcased in major galleries and exhibitions nationwide, and he gained further recognition with a Grammy nomination in 1999 for designing an album cover for the band Great White. McPhee's *Jaws*-inspired art is highly sought after by collectors, with pieces selling for thousands of dollars on platforms like eBay, often signed and accompanied by certificates of authenticity. His style blends realism with a cinematic flair, capturing the essence of the *Jaws* narrative.