Born in Guatemala and raised in Los Angeles, Atilio Murga is an Artist, Public Art Project Manager, and freelance Art Director who is based in Nashville, TN.
With over 25 years of experience, Atilio specializes in public art installations, publishing, package design, and international trade and branding.
His artistic journey began in high school, where he developed a love for writing, journalism, and animation, competing at regional, state, and national level events for Vocational Industrial Clubs of America, now known as SkillsUSA.
At 18, while also receiving a degree in Multimedia and Interactive design from the Art Institute of Los Angeles, Atilio entered the publishing industry as a graphic designer for the largest minority-owned newspaper in California, The Wave Newspapers.
Over his career, Atilio has worked in fabrication, interior design, and various publication companies located on both the East and West Coasts.
In 2006, Atilio made the pivotal decision to transition from the publishing industry to take on the role of Art Director for the largest wine importer of Southern Hemisphere wines in the United States, Southern Starz Inc. This opportunity allowed him to broaden his expertise in international trade, regional branding, and compliance standards while working closely with foreign government agencies from Argentina, Australia, Chile, New Zealand, South Africa, and domestically with the United States Department of Alcohol and Tobacco Tax and Trade Bureau.
Currently, Atilio is a Public Art Project Manager for the City of Nashville-Davidson County, where he dedicates his expertise to creating innovative processes and opportunities aimed at enhancing community access to art. His commitment to making art more accessible reflects a deep passion for engaging diverse audiences and developing new opportunities for local artists.
Outside of his professional role, Atilio actively contributes to his community as a youth soccer coach and referee, sharing his love for sports with the next generation. He is also an avid supporter of the arts, regularly attending and backing numerous performances and exhibitions within the local cultural scene.
Atilio’s curiosity extends beyond borders, as he travels internationally to connect with artists, cultural organizations, and agencies, eager to discover how they nurture their local art communities.
Through these experiences, he continues to enrich his understanding of the arts and their impact on society.
He is also fluent in Spanish and German, and enjoys creating art with his niece.