Jamaican-born, Philadelphia-based painter O’Neil Scott recently concluded an exhibition at EXPO Chicago featuring pieces centring the resilience of Jamaica and the rebuilding following Hurricane Melissa.

EXPO Chicago, owned by Frieze, is a major international art fair, and this presentation marked an important moment for Scott. His work was also recently featured at the National Gallery of Jamaica.

“I see resilience in the decision to rise again and again, despite loss, disruption, and change. For me, rebuilding is more than a physical act, it’s also emotional and cultural. It’s about restoring not just homes, but identity, connection, and hope. Shaping something new from what remains while holding on to the belief that, even in the face of devastation, growth will continue,” the artist told the Jamaica Observer.

Scott started working on the paintings in late October 2025, totalling about five months of work. Each painting took an average of around 200 hours, as he worked on them intermittently while allowing others to dry.

Another piece from the recently concluded exhibition.

He began drawing as a child, filling notebooks with characters both imagined and observed.

Scott’s work is inspired by the Old Masters and contemporary realists alike. His transition from acrylic to oil paint marked a pivotal moment in his practice, allowing for greater depth, pliability, and exploration of complex narratives.

Through his portraits, he engages with themes such as social justice, climate change, and subjects that speak to both personal truth and collective urgency.

In 2025, Scott debuted his first solo museum large scale works exhibition at the Zillman Art Museum (University of Maine) in Bangor, Maine.

O’Neil Scott .

Although steadily making strides, the visual artist has had his fair of challenges. But he has found effective ways of overcoming them.

“One of the biggest challenges I’ve faced as an artist is understanding when I’ve truly found my voice; something I’ve come to realise doesn’t happen all at once, but gradually over time. I’ve navigated this by continuing to experiment and grow within my work, using each piece as a way to reflect on my journey and what I feel compelled to share with the world. By intentionally seeking a deeper understanding of who I am, I’ve been able to come back to my voice with a stronger sense of clarity and purpose,” he said.

Meanwhile, the evolving artist is motivating others to remain consistent and dedicated to better their craft.

“I’d encourage younger artists to remember that everyone’s journey looks different. It’s great to have a clear goal, but the path you take to get there won’t always match what others are doing, and that’s okay. The key is to trust your own direction, stay intentional, and keep pushing forward with resilience. If you can do that, you’ll find your way to where you’re meant to be,” Scott said.