Christopher R. Murray is a righteous blend of old-school skill and fresh flair. This artist, illustrator, and educator grooves between the Great Masters’ techniques and today’s culture, laying it down in oils, pen & ink, charcoal, and graphite. The result? Works that feel timeless yet totally now.

He’s snagged Best in Show at this year's Annual MAC Members' Show, and even rocked a few huge pieces for the new USACE building. When Chris isn’t creating magic in the studio, he’s teaching art, taking commissions, or soaking up inspiration on his pine tree farm in Rosinton with his partner and three cool kiddos.

This Throwdown, he’s bringing classic chops with a funky twist—get ready to be wowed. Keep his colors funky and his brushes fresh, chip in today!

For 13 years, local artists have gone head-to-head in this high-energy live art competition. Five artists. Ninety minutes. One shared supply table—and a surprise mystery box. It’s fast, creative, and a thrill to watch. At the end of the night, attendees can bid on these freshly made masterpieces in a live auction, hosted by director, actor, and writer Japonica Brown.

This year, we’re throwing it back in honor of MAC’s 70th anniversary — with a special “retro-bution” edition of The Throwdown! Past competitors are returning for another shot at victory, and we can’t wait to see what they bring to the table. This year’s competitors are Christy LeGross (returning champion), Mary Elizabeth Kimbrough (2019 competitor), Kathleen Kirk Stoves (2020 competitor), Christopher Murray (2022 competitor), and Ty Tover (2023 competitor).

Thank you to our 2025 event sponsors: Mobile County Commission, Heros Sports Bar & Grill, The Royal Scam, United Johnson Brothers, New Horizons Credit Union, Downtown Mobile Alliance, Cathead Distillery, Braided River Brewing Co., and Ron Barrett LLC.