
Sean O’Neill
Origin: Long Island, New York
Currently Exhibiting in: New York City
Social Media: Instagram | LinkedIn
Bio:
Sean O’Neill is a New York-based artist whose work delves into themes of friendship, community, and the emotional complexities of human connection. Raised on Long Island and deeply rooted in the power of interpersonal relationships, O’Neill’s creative practice reflects the importance of community-building and collective love, especially during challenging times. Through a distinctive use of concise color palettes, high contrast, and humanoid figures, O’Neill captures the raw dynamics of relationships—both their beauty and their pain.
O’Neill’s work is informed by their experiences of community activism, emotional collaboration, and collective liberation. The artist’s layered approach to storytelling is imbued with their identity as a queer, trans artist and the influence of those closest to them. With a passion for uplifting emerging creatives, O’Neill has also been involved in curating pop-up exhibitions to support young local artists.
Featured Artwork at Bushwick Gallery
Honeymoon (Codependent Homoerotic Friendship)
- Year of Creation: 2024
- Medium: Acrylic and charcoal on canvas
- Dimensions: 36 x 42 inches
- Price: $900 USD
Description:
Honeymoon (Codependent Homoerotic Friendship) is a deeply personal exploration of unhealthy friendships, emotional infatuation, and the difficult process of letting go. Through expressive layers of acrylic and charcoal, O’Neill navigates the thrill of connection and the devastation of its breakdown, reflecting the turmoil of moving on from toxic relationships. Inspired by symbols like the ouroboros and purgatory, this piece embodies the cyclical nature of emotional entanglement and the eventual awakening to self-worth.
O’Neill’s technique of layering washes, texture, and contrast parallels the emotional depth of the work. The subdued, limited palette mirrors the tension between love and obsession, while the raw brushstrokes and textured surfaces reflect the cathartic process of emotional release. The piece is a testament to healing, self-discovery, and the strength found in community.
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Exhibition Information
Exhibition Title: Love and Heartbreak: A Duality
Opening Reception: Thursday, February 13 / 6PM-8PM
Exhibition Dates: February 13 – February 20
Theme: Love and Heartbreak: A Duality explores the emotional spectrum of human relationships, capturing both the joy of connection and the pain of separation. Sean O’Neill’s Honeymoon (Codependent Homoerotic Friendship) embodies the difficult process of navigating toxic friendships and rediscovering self-worth. With its layered storytelling, emotional symbolism, and reflective tone, the piece provides a poignant commentary on love’s dual nature, making it a key contribution to the exhibition’s overarching theme.