A word from the artist

I have spent my life drawing and painting, watercolour being my favourite medium, initiated by my studies of Chinese brush painting as a child in Malaysia.

I love bright bold colours and the fluid, spontaneous nature of watercolour.

I have always had a strong affiliation with animals and have always wanted to protect and nurture them.  I would collect stray, lost or injured animals as a child, giving my parents no choice about my growing wild & domestic collection. I have discovered that I can use my art to help influence conservation by informing and/or raising money to assist worthy organisations.

My life is not complete if I do not have a dog by my side.

Winnie, my Schnoodle and shadow is my constant companion.

I generally start a painting in a period of quiet contemplation thinking about composition and colour.

I develop a bond or understanding with my subject as I study and paint it.

I fall into a place of quiet feeling where time & thinking disappear. I become swept up in the unrestrained flow of the paint.

Painting for me is a passion and a precious way to portray beautiful souls and to bring the same pleasure and peace to my viewer. 

My environment is generally my source of inspiration be it human form, animals, plants, scenes and or objects collected on my walks with my dogs.

Biography

Alix O’Neil was born in Malaysia to Scottish parents who managed a rubber plantation.

Alix O’Neil was born in Malaysia to Scottish parents who managed a rubber plantation. From a young age, she was captivated by both the natural world and the creative process—constantly drawing, painting, and rescuing stray or injured animals to add to her growing menagerie.

Her study of Chinese brush painting in Malaysia cemented her love of watercolour. She was accepted to the Glasgow College of Building and Printing, and after completing her education, travelled and worked across Europe before moving to Sydney in 1990. She now lives in Agnes Water, QLD, on a peaceful four-acre property surrounded by the natural world that continues to inspire her.

Art and Conservation

Driven by concern for habitat loss and species extinction, Alix has embraced the role of “Artivist”—using her paintings to promote environmental awareness and support conservation efforts. Her work often features Australian wildlife, capturing the spirit of each animal with empathy and vitality.

Painting is a meditative, emotional process for Alix. Each piece begins in quiet contemplation, building a connection with her subject. She becomes absorbed in the flow of colour and water, creating works that reflect the beauty, soul, and energy of the natural world. 

 Exploration in Portraiture

Alongside her passion for animals and landscapes, Alix has increasingly explored portraiture—capturing not just likeness but the inner light and emotional presence of her human subjects. Her portraits, like her animal works, are informed by a deep sense of empathy and connection. This growing body of work reflects her interest in storytelling through the human face and form.