Dallas Mapping Project
1) Who is your favorite artist, why?
Dan Flavin, who I learned about in college. He used light and color to define space. His work was at first weird and simplistic to me.
2) If possible describe yourself in one word?
Eccentric. I don’t really care to fit in. I feel this word explains my creativity, kindness, and caring heart.
3) When do you most like to work on a piece of art?
At school teaching my class. I’ve been searching to rent a better space for my sculpting and painting.
4) What is the most comfortable art tool for you?
I love sculpting and using my hands. I miss using clay.
5) What is your favorite work of art and why?
It’s hard to say because I really love art. The first work of art I remember taking my breath is Barnett Newman’s painting Vir Heroicus sublimis at MOMA in New York City. One of my favorite sculptures is the Wave at SMU by Santiago Calatrava. I love when an artist incorporates water, fire, movement and light in their art.
6) What do you think about the contemporary art world?
I really enjoy the weird contemporary art world because it makes me think. I like things that create a feeling of happiness and use lots of color. I think art keeps the world interesting.
7) What do you feel you learned from Mr. Judd?
I learned that fame and power gives a person more control over their art. I learned that you should fight for what you believe in, and that you can find beauty in almost anything. I feel you should appreciate all the materials around you. He was the first person I saw use corten steel. He knew how to appreciate the everyday materials around him.
8) If there was no such thing as art, what do you think you would be doing?
Something that connects me to animals- I really love them, and enjoy taking care of them.
9) Do you think art is an important aspect of life and, if so, why?
I think art is the most important aspect of the world. It facilitates all we know about our history. I believe there is artistic input involved in all man-made things.
10) What is art?
It is whatever people say it is. If someone says its art, it is no matter what. The real debate is whether it is good or not.
Monty O’Neil
Monty O’Neil is an art teacher at Skyline High School. He was born in Midland, TX and attended Sul Ross State University where he received a BFA in Art. He also has a Minor in Business. Before coming to Skyline, he had several jobs, one of which was being an assistant to the renowned Minimalist artist, Donald Judd who had his studio in Marfa, Texas. Mr. O’Neil also owned and operated his own rubber stamp business. He is one of the most admired teachers at Skyline, and he teaches art and painting.