Sarah Oliphant

Photo by: JONSAR STUDIOS

In 1976 I moved to NYC after finishing my graduate studies in theatre set design at the University of South Carolina. I was working as a very incompetent office temp during the day and as a scenic artist in Off Off Broadway at night. I was struggling, to say the least. I got my lucky break when I met the photographer Michel Tchevekoff and he asked me to paint a realistic sky with an airbrush for a still life shoot happening the next day. I had never used an airbrush but I propped a 4’x6’ piece of plywood up against my refrigerator and painted through the night. It turned out fine and I painted many more skies for him, several of which are still in my rental inventory. Michel was the first of the thousands of incredible and talented people that I have been privileged to work with. I can not describe the joy I feel when I walk into my studio and get to do what I love. I am so grateful to have the chance to play my part in photographic history. 

Adelaide Murphy Tyrol

Adelaide Murphy Tyrol studied at the Art Student’s League, Parson’s School of Design and received her MFA from the Art Institute of Boston. She works primarily out of her studio in Vermont.  Adelaide and Sarah have worked together brainstorming and painting since the studio’s inception. Adelaide is also a botanical and natural history illustrator.

Munmun Oliphant-O’Neill

Favorite Backdrop: For a classic grey portrait drop, definitely #129. In regard to scenic backdrops, #1112 and #1113 are my favorites- I’d like to disappear into them.

Fun Fact: I am an avid equestrian and have a rescue horse named Benji. I also am an avid theater goer, and can be found either at the barn or catching a new play or musical when not at work.

Violet Oliphant-O’Neill

Favorite backdrop: #424. It reminds me of my childhood.

Fun fact: I have over 40 tattoos, most of which I did myself. My first backdrop painted for Oliphant rental stock was #1600. 

Margot Dahlberg

Favorite backdrop: There are so many to choose from! I have a soft spot for #1800—it brings back memories of fishing on my dad’s boat with my brother and sister.

Fun fact: Summertime is perfect for tie-dye—especially transforming my kids’ stained clothes. My first concert was Boyz II Men, and it was incredible! After the kids are asleep, my favorite way to unwind is watching TV on the couch with my husband and our dog, Harley. Oh, and I’m always up for a beach day!

Kitt Catlow

Favorite backdrop: Well, this changes regularly. There are just so many I love. But currently #161 is my go to. Sarah’s skies are just iconic – and this one is no exception. For me this brings summer in Provincetown to life. Pure joy.

Fun Fact: I spent many years as a burlesque artist and cabaret performer, after originally moving to NYC to attend a theater program. I still bust out the tassels and grab the mic every once in a while!

Harrison Gilbertson

Favorite backdrop: Hmm… it’s still “under review”—you know, deep thoughts and artistic contemplation! Stay tuned for the grand reveal soon!

Fun Fact: Still thinking it over! But here’s a fun fact while I decide: Oliphant backdrops have been around so long that some photographers say their Oliphant is the most reliable partner they’ve ever had on set!

Tanisha D’souza

Favorite backdrop: #338 ‘Wall of Fire’ is my favorite backdrop for its bold colors, chalky airbrush texture and old school charm!

Fun fact: I love working with my hands, and a good home DIY project!

Janiva Taupule

Favorite backdrop: #1712 for its subtle details and #411 because it always looks like it has a story. 

Fun fact: I’m a serial hobbyist who enjoys making closed terrariums, scrapbooking and anything else I can creatively express my self through..