[visual art]

A Family Affair:
The O’Neals celebrate art and business in the Port City

By: Lauren Hodges

All who have found their way into the cavernous walls of downtown’s historic haunt City Market have likely already encountered the O’Neals. Cynthia O’Neal’s corner of the market, purposefully named Found, is the first thing to grab a wanderer’s eye. The gold-painted curly branches on her “Tree of Life” series sparkle warmly, inviting all those who pass to explore the store.

“We’re so glad to be a part of this place,” O’Neal, a seasoned painter/clothing designer/fashion model who has worked and lived all over the world, said. “We’ve put a lot into our little space. I’m pretty proud of it.”

Our conversation commenced during my second visit to the store. The first time was curiosity, this time was mostly research (professional mixed with personal). I was strongly drawn to the hand-sewn messenger bags with retro fabric, luxe neck wraps and skull pottery. The dressing room was guarded by a looming white tree branch that seemed to be growing right out of the wall. It was a fitting tribute to the “Trees of Life” that lined the walls. As we talked about Cynthia and husband Clay’s latest venture, I tried my hardest not to run my finger along the snaking swirls that made up each painting.

“Clay’s artwork would totally get lost in here,” she said, motioning to the whimsy that covered the walls of Found. “He’s very contemporary, but I don’t like to use the word ‘modern’ because then people just think mid-century. That is not how anyone would describe Clay’s work. His stuff is very ‘now.’”

Clay O’Neal, a professional surfer-turned-artist, has spread his own artistic wings—into the space across from Found. Having recently acquired the vacant studio in City Market, O’Neal now has a place to hang his edgy photographs, clothing and paintings.

“He really streamlined that place,” his wife said. “I’m so glad he was able to grab it. He has made it the perfect contemporary home for his stuff.”

The place has been dubbed Shadowbox Gallery, and doubles as his showroom and studio. Though he dabbles in many mediums, O’Neal specializes in photography. As her husband’s favorite model, Cynthia can attest to Clay’s passion for the camera. “People are going to love his fashion photography,” she said. “He also has quite a following with his T-shirt featuring a camera on the front. It’s very popular.”

As I place a skull sake set on the counter to be rung up, Cynthia invites me to an upcoming party. As it turns out, the O’Neals have decided to include all of Wilmington in the celebration of their recent expansion. Every Friday night, they throw a wine and art reception at Shadowbox, inviting patrons to come in and walk around.

“Since it is Clay’s studio, people will get to see stuff in progress,” Cynthia said. “It’s going to be every Friday, but there will always be something new to see. Clay is working on something right now, and I love to rotate my pieces.”

The Shadowbox Friday Night Art Party is sure to become an after-dinner ritual for the downtown art crowd in coming months, but patrons from all walks of life can appreciate the gathering.

Attendants can go to 119 South Water Street this Friday night from 6-9pm. Admission is free with wine and appetizers offered. Call (910) 763-4465 for more information.