Onela’s work is largely inspired by man made structures that shape the everyday environments we exist in. Attracted in particular to industrial forms, she explores the notion there is beauty in these scenes that often goes unnoticed or is viewed in a negative way.

The subjects, colour and light are eagerly considered and integral to the compositions, inviting the viewer to perhaps appreciate the scenes with a new perspective. The often minimal reference to nature aims to highlight the form and character of the structures and invite the audience to question the idea that they are attractive in their own right. Interestingly, Onela’s paintings have been described by many, as curiously emanating a calmness.

During the early part of her painting career Onela lived in Bristol and travelled extensively throughout Europe and other parts of the world, taking inspiration. As a member of Jamaica Street Studios (JSS), she took part in yearly open studio exhibitions. This provided a platform leading to a solo exhibition, gallery representation and group shows within the Royal West Academy of England and the Bristol Museum and Art Gallery.

Onela returned to Australia in 2016 to explore its environs. Influenced by the American Precisionists, she was keen to investigate both rural and urban industrial settings in her country of birth and discover how they could lend themselves to her work.

In July 2019 Onela commenced a residency above the arctic circle in a small village called Stamsund on the Lofoten Archipelago, Norway. In 2020 she had a successful exhibition – ‘Iconic Stamsund’ – featuring paintings of structures that are integral to the identity of the village, which is largely focused on the fishing industry.

Currently living in Sevilla, Spain, Onela recently had her first solo exhibition in the Andalusian capital.

Solo Exhibition
Galeria Taberna Anima, Sevilla, Spain

Solo Exhibition
Doctor Bar, Sevilla, Spain

Solo Exhibition
Iconic Stamsund: Stamsund, Norway

Residency
Stamsund, Norway

Exhibition
The Other Art Fair: Sydney, Australia

Finalist
John Leslie Art Prize: Gippsland, Australia
Finalist
Muswellbrook Art Prize: Muswellbrook, Australia

Finalist
Hornsby Art Prize: Sydney, Australia

Exhibition
Jamaica Street Artists Open Studio: Bristol, UK

Exhibition
Jamaica Street Artists Open Studio: Bristol, UK

Exhibition
Jamaica Street Artists Open Studio: Bristol, UK

Exhibition
Inside Out Exhibition, Royal West of England Academy: Bristol, UK

Solo Exhibition
Severn Shed: Bristol, UK
Exhibition
Bristol Museum and Art Gallery: Bristol, UK
Exhibition
Jamaica Street Artists Open Studio: Bristol, UK