What inspired you to get into art?
“I’ve been inspired to make art for as long as I can remember. Infinite things inspire me to create and that is what makes me “an artist”. I am overcome by joy when I’ve created something out of nothing and experiment with a new technique , material or medium.”
How many years have you been in business? How did you get your start?
“I’ve been making and selling art for the last 20 years or so. In 2011, I created O’Neill Studios, which was a boutique decorative and fine art studio that later transitioned into Swatchroom.“
Does your work reflect you as a person? Can you describe your style?
“My style is Pop Impressionism and it is colorful, gestural and vibrant. I have been told I am those things as well :).I use many methodologies and techniques; Using a mixture of brushes, towels and spray bottles, I paint quickly with multiple layers of colors and swift gestures. I drip, scrape, brush, and splatter. Composition, design, mood, atmosphere, and color propel me just as much as the subject matter.”
What’s the most challenging part of being in the industry?
“That’s a great question. One of the main reasons I was so inspired to create SUPERFIERCE was to bring artists and emerging artists together to support each other and their communities. When you are an artist, you are out there on your own island and it can be lonely and isolating. I would say the toughest challenge I have faced (especially in the beginning) was having access to other artists in my field who were willing to point me in the right direction. It’s a big enough world for every artist to succeed so I would like to see more of a sense of support for new artists trying to make it.”
Out of all your amazing work, which one are you most proud of?
“In 2012, I had the honor of personally delivering a portrait to President Obama…which to this day is still surreal to me. Two years later (2014), my“Uncle Sam” was featured on the front page of The New York Times which is something I am so incredibly proud yet humbled by.”
What is “Superfierce“?
SUPERFIERCE is the first in a series of charitable events hosted by female artists paying it forward. I created SUPERFIERCE with the mission of growing a meaningful mentorship program for aspiring artists.
How did you come up with the concept and what is the goal?
“I created SUPERFIERCE with the mission of growing a national mentorship program for aspiring artists and supporting female-focused charities. I wanted to create a supportive and judgment-free environment for female artists to come together, learn about how to run a business, and give back to female-focused charities in their communities. Ultimately, my hope was (and still is) for SUPERFIERCE to serve as a platform where women (and men too!) can come together, support each other in business and give back to others.”
What is next for Maggie as the founder of “Superfierce”?
“After Wednesday’s launch event here in DC, we will host SUPERFIERCE events in New York and LA. There will be two or three national artists and then the rest will be local. My goal is to have hosted SUPERFIERCE events in four different cities by 2017. Hopefully then we will all culminate at Art Basel.”
How can people get in touch with you? — Go to either www.maggieo.com www.swatchroom.com or call the studio.
