Samantha O’Neil is an emerging painter living in Brooklyn, NY. Her practice developed from a fascination with rich textures and intricate patterns, as well as a tendency to work best under pressure.

She starts by applying a layer of acrylic molding paste to wood panels, and then carves patterns through the paste with palette knives and spatulas. The rate at which the paste dries serves as a helpful time constraint, driving her to create intuitive patterns on the fly. With only an hour or so to complete the foundation of each piece, she lets her instincts take over and is temporarily free from the habit of overthinking. Once the paste dries and the base pattern is set, she applies acrylic paints for richer colors and textures.

The end result is intended to create a feeling of freedom and flow for the viewer. She hopes it at least comes close.