A Stranger in Her Own Land

Rhea O’Neill was born in the UK and obtained a masters degree in painting at the University of Arts London- Wimbledon College of Art. She moved to California in 2011.

Her work primarily focuses on depictions of flora and fauna in her immediate surroundings. She finds inspiration in the beautiful California light. Strong color choices and high contrast are used as an emotional intensifier, pushing forward the main concept of environmental encroachment and degradation in her work. She also hopes to elevate animals in the eyes of the viewer, as individuals worthy of respect.

Rhea's work has always been dedicated to nature. Her focus on landscape painting during her postgraduate time gradually evolved into a more honed depiction of animals and plants. A fascination with the medium of oil painting has pushed her to really explore what can be achieved with this traditional medium. Coming from an untraditional masters education, where technical theory was not even touched upon, she has chosen to explore how the medium can be applied in both a traditional and innovative manner. This has been a slow process of discovery. Her most recent works hope to combine the avant-garde nature of her education and the long history of painting with oils.

An example of her painting can be found in the UK government art collection and is currently on display in one of their worldwide embassies. She has exhibited globally including the UK, China, USA and New Zealand. She was a finalist in the Beautiful Bizarre Art Prize in 2024.