Meet Maggie O’Neill | Artist, Designer, Entrepreneur, Activist and believer that Color is the answer

We had the good fortune of connecting with Maggie O’Neill and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Maggie, we’d love to hear more about how you thought about starting your own business?
Starting my own business was more of an organic journey than a strategic one. I don’t think I could have envisioned my business now at that time however, from a young age, I knew I loved art, I wanted to be creative, and build big ideas. During graduate school, I was drawn to the decorative arts community and after studying restoration and portraiture in Italy, I began my career in Washington DC opening a decorative finishing, studio which naturally led me into interior design.
Initially, I did not have a detailed business plan. Instead, I focused on following my passions trying many different approaches to art and design while building my skills and meeting as many people as possible. Joining the decorative arts community allowed me to immerse myself in a world of creativity and craftsmanship, where I could continually learn and grow. This experience was invaluable as it provided me with the foundation I needed to explore various aspects of design and art.
As my career progressed and the projects got bigger, our team grew in size, I realized that building a successful creative business required empathy, awareness of others’ perspectives, and developing stronger business acumen.
One of the most pivotal moments in my journey was realizing the importance of collaboration. I began working closely with other artists and creatives, and this collective approach became a cornerstone of my business philosophy. I discovered that by bringing together experts from different fields, we could create something truly unique.
This synergy allowed me to tackle problems with innovation, setting me apart from traditional designers and architects.
My approach was disruptive to the industry norms. I didn’t just follow the conventional methods; I reimagined them. This mindset enabled me to offer fresh perspectives and solutions, making our work stand out. As a result, we became highly competitive and established a reputation for being at the forefront of design innovation.
In essence, my business was built on a foundation of passion, creativity, and collaboration. By embracing an organic growth process and focusing on working with talented individuals, we were able to carve out a niche for ourselves in the industry. Our commitment to approaching problems differently and thinking outside the box has been key to our success, allowing us to continuously push the boundaries of what is possible in design.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
My journey has always been deeply rooted in my passion for painting. As my design career evolved, I found that my artistic abilities were being continually honed and strengthened and I had to have discipline to create art simultaneously. Each project I took on allowed me to push the boundaries of my creativity and refine my skills.
One of the key aspects of my work is the integration of fine art with functional design. I believe that every space has the potential to be a canvas, and my goal is to create environments that translate a unique personality and story.
As far as my paintings, I strive to create pieces that resonate with people on a personal level, evoking emotions through color and composition and oftentimes sparking conversations. My work is not just about aesthetics; it’s about creating meaningful experiences and connections.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
If I had a friend visiting, I would start our day at Union Market, a hub of culinary delights and artisanal shops. Union Market is not just a place to grab a bite but a true community where creativity and commerce intersect. It’s the perfect starting point to get a feel for the city’s innovative spirit.

La Cosecha, a charming marketplace in the heart of Union Market District and known for its great ambiance, and in the center of the market make sure to have a drink at award-winning cocktail bar Serenata. It’s a great place to relax and soak in the local atmosphere. After enjoying a drink, we would explore some of my favorite boutiques in the area. Ron David Salt and Sundry are must-visits. They offer a curated selection of unique, high-quality items that reflect the local flavor and craftsmanship.
In the afternoon, we might catch some live music at Songbyrd Music House. This venue is a gem in DC’s music scene, hosting a range of performances from emerging artists to established acts. The intimate setting provides a fantastic experience and is a great way to immerse in the local culture.
For dinner, we could stay in the Union Market neighborhood and try one of the many amazing Steve Starr restaurants El Presidente, St Anslem, or Pastis. If we were in the mood for a big night out I may suggest we head to Rose’s Luxury for a unique and always extraordinary meal.

I love a stroll around the National Mall after dinner to see the monuments beautifully lit up, at night. If we wanted to catch a show at the Wharf waterfront there is a vibrant nightlife and a few live music venues for performances.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
I think there are a lot of people in Washington doing great work to support the local community and businesses.
I’d like to give a shoutout to Shop Made in DC. This fantastic initiative and retailer is dedicated to showcasing and selling products made by local makers, artists, and entrepreneurs. They have multiple locations around the city, each brimming with unique, high-quality items ranging from art and jewelry to home goods and gourmet foods. Shop Made in DC not only provides a platform for local creators to reach a broader audience but also strengthens our local economy by encouraging people to buy locally. It’s a must-visit for anyone looking to take home a piece of Washington’s creative spirit
In addition to supporting local shops, I highly recommend exploring some of DC’s renowned museums, which are treasure troves of art and culture. The Phillips Collection is America’s first museum of modern art and offers an intimate setting where visitors can enjoy masterpieces by artists like Renoir, Rothko, and Van Gogh. Their innovative exhibitions and programs make it a vibrant part of DC’s cultural landscape.
The Hirshhorn Museum and Sculpture Garden is another highlight. Dedicated to modern and contemporary art, the Hirshhorn features a striking collection of works by artists like Warhol, Kusama, and Bourgeois. The museum’s outdoor sculpture garden is a serene space where you can experience large-scale sculptures in a natural setting. The Hirshhorn also hosts dynamic exhibitions and events that reflect the ever-evolving world of contemporary art.
Finally, a special mention goes to our local artists, performers, and creative professionals who contribute to the vibrant cultural fabric of our city. Their passion and innovation keep our arts scene lively and ever-changing. I also would like to shout out to the numerous organizations and non-profits dedicated to supporting and promoting the arts in our community. Groups like the DC Arts Center, Transformer, and the CulturalDC provide essential resources, spaces, and platforms for artists to thrive. Their work is vital in ensuring that the arts continue to flourish and that emerging artists have the opportunities they need to grow and succeed.

Website: https://maggieo.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/maggieoartist/

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/maggie-o-neill-364108a1/

Other: https://www.voteforyourdaughter.com/