Onela Keal

Onela’s work is inspired by an interest in architecture and man made structures that shape the everyday environments we exist in. Attracted in particular to industrial forms, she explores the idea there is beauty in these scenes that often goes unnoticed. How the light falls and the way these forms are viewed are eagerly considered in the compositions, often producing surprising results which allow us to appreciate them with a new perspective. The lack of human presence and the minimal reference to nature in the images isolate the constructions, inviting the viewer to consider them as objects on their own and question the notion of whether the spaces they create and atmospheres they emanate make them attractive in their own right.

Living in Bristol, United Kingdom and travelling extensively throughout Europe and other parts of the world for the last 15 years, Onela established herself as a painter, working in one of the largest independent artist studios outside of London. Jamaica Street Artists (JSA), being a collective of around 40 artists with a large number of professionals in the mix, enabled a solid platform in which to develop. The yearly exhibitions organised by the group provided exposure leading to a solo exhibition, g...

A self taught painter Onela has worked within collective studio environments and been mentored by professional artists, building on her knowledge and technique.

2019 – The Other Art Fair Sydney
2018 – The QBN Hive Exhibition
2018 – Finalist: John Leslie Art Prize
2018 – Finalist: Muswellbrook Art Prize
2017 – Finalist: Hornsby Art Prize
2015 – JSA Open Studio Exhibition
2014 – JSA Open Studio Exhibition
2013 – JSA Open Studio Exhibition
2012 – Open Exhibition: Royal West of England Academy
2012 – JSA Open Studio Exhibition
2011 – JSA Open Studio Exhibition
2010 – JSA Open Studio Exhibition
2010 – Inside Out Exhibition: Royal West of England Academy
2009 – JSA Open Studio Exhibition
2009 – JSA Auction and Exhibition: Bristol Museum and Art Gallery
2009 – Solo Exhibition: Severn Shed
2008 – JSA Open Studio Exhibition
2007 – JSA Open Studio Exhibition