My name is Caitlyn O’Neal. I am one of four children from Russiaville, Indiana. I have a twin sister, Carley, and two brothers, Clay and Cooper. I graduated from Western High School and went to college for my first two years of school at Davis & Elkins College located in Elkins, West Virginia. I transferred to Goshen College my junior year and graduated with my Bachelors degree in Fine Arts and Teaching License for grades K-12 in Art Education. Throughout my artist career, I have been influenced by several experiences and educators. While I was at Davis & Elkins College, my art professors had a huge impact on my artwork and on me. My painting style has developed into a more expressive or abstract way of viewing nature around me. I value the obviousness of seeing that a piece of artwork is handmade. The drips you see in my painting are a stylistic choice influenced by my professor, Michael Doig. I have adopted the same style with my pottery, illuminating the concept of art being handmade and influenced by nature. My past studio experience has primarily focused on ceramics, exploring my own style creating cups, bowls, plates, jars, and vases. I have worked as a studio artist assistant at Goertzen Pottery for ceramic artist, Mark Goertzen, in Goshen, Indiana. Through my studio assistant experiences, I have developed a sense for the dedication and rewards of studio work. My teaching experience has strengthened my passion for art to inspire and empower young artists. This spring, I am teaching two-dimensional Art courses at Goshen High School. I hope to inspire students to be artists; but more importantly, I hope to use Art to guide students to become positive, responsible citizens.

Instagram : @cso_art

Facebook: Caitlyn Shirley O'Neal Art

Etsy: www.CSOart.etsy.com

Caitlyn O’NealThe physicality of creating art with clay draws me to the process. Using my muscles and body to mold clay, morph it from the conceptual image to the piece that was waiting to be created. The piece reflects earthy colors, designs, and p… — Caitlyn O’Neal
The physicality of creating art with clay draws me to the process. Using my muscles and body to mold clay, morph it from the conceptual image to the piece that was waiting to be created. The piece reflects earthy colors, designs, and patterns that surround us daily in nature. I am drawn to natural pairs. I am a twin and for most of my life, I have been defined as part of a pair. Often pairs can be found in pottery such as mugs, cups, bowls, and plates. I create works that come as and function as a pair.

Everyone has a story. My story involves being an artist in order to make sense of the world around me. The art of making is a way to navigate life’s obstacles and sort questions that fill my head: Where do I fit? Am I good enough? Art catalyzes my inner voice to help understand my purpose in life. The journey of life can leave many scars but when they heal, I will be able to show who I am through art. I believe that art has strengthened my creative and critical thinking, allowed me to make mistakes and new discoveries, developed my character and perseverance, and provided a voice when words are not enough. Fine Art and creativity are catalysts for social change and economic improvement while enhancing everyday lives with beauty. I hope my work can connect with others and help bring positivity into their lives.

May 2020 Artist of the Month Caitlyn O’Neal