Olivia Patricia O’Neal
Olivia Patricia O’Neal’s art captures the calm in the storm, the liveliness of water, and the boundless happiness that children naturally radiate. Her work invites us to experience these moments of joy through the eyes of youth. There’s a beautiful ease in the way children simply exist, taking in the world and letting vibrant images fill their curious eyes. The rich yet gentle colours in Patricia’s piece from the Mexican Memories Series, Children on the Sidewalk, make it a delightful everyday addition, bringing a touch of warmth and energy into any space.
Patricia’s Play Time series explores a whirlwind of emotions and experiences, inviting us to revisit cherished memories in each piece. Who doesn’t recall the pure excitement of running toward something you’ve long awaited—whether it’s your grandparents, a favourite pet, or, as in Patricia’s own memories, the first sensation of sand beneath your feet and the cool sea touching your toes. Her painting Running to the Shore captures this shared joy in sun-kissed, orange tones. With Edward and Dunham, Patricia offers a more intimate glimpse, a special bond between two living beings, visually emphasized by a red thread that draws our eyes from the child’s focus to the parrot’s curiosity. This thoughtful, quiet atmosphere carries through the series in works like Lemon Drop, Fisher Boy, Buttermilk Sky, Blue Baby, and Rainy Day Haircut. Each painting is unique, evoking different moments of life, but all share a mysterious, almost sentimental calmness.
Whether it’s a moment alone, dancing with the waves, or the gentle support of a caring parent, Patricia’s paintings capture the wishful spirit of childhood through love, trust, and the courage to try something new.
Patricia admires artist Jay DeFeo, especially for her monumental work, The Rose. Both artists share a profound dedication to their craft, investing years of reflection and intuition into their most meaningful pieces. While DeFeo’s bold experimentation and layered abstraction offer a striking visual impact, Patricia’s work radiates a gentle vibrancy and emotional warmth. Both create art that resonates deeply with viewers, revealing the power of passion and perseverance in uniquely inspiring ways.
Olivia Patricia O’Neal is a contemporary artist, born in Tennessee and educated at the New York Academy of Art (MFA). She has exhibited her work internationally, including nineteen solo shows across the United States, France, and Taiwan. Highlights of her career include an invitational exhibition at the Taipei Cultural Center and a series inspired by Mary Shelley’s Frankenstein. Her paintings are included in private and public collections, and her practice frequently explores themes of memory and identity. She currently lives and works in Vancouver.
Olivia Patricia O’Neal is the Silver Artist of the ArtAscent Children call for artists. To see the full body of work and profile, get a copy of the 2026 ArtAscent Art & Literature Journal Children issue.
