Margaret McNeal

About Margaret McNeal

Margaret McNeal, a self-taught artist based in Chandler, Arizona, has captured the essence of the American Southwest through her dynamic and vibrant paintings. Originally from Michigan, Margaret's journey into the arts began after a successful career in engineering, a path inspired by her father. It wasn't until her retirement that she found the time to pursue her passion for painting, a passion deeply rooted in her mother’s love for the strong, resilient societies of the West. Since moving to Arizona in 2009, Margaret has embraced the region's rich history and diverse landscapes, channeling these elements into her work.

Margaret's artistic style is an evocative blend of abstract and realism, where bold, vibrant colors bring to life the stunning landscapes, indigenous portraits, flora, and wildlife of the Southwest. Using primarily oil paints with occasional acrylic backgrounds, she employs bold strokes and the Alla Prima technique to convey depth and narrative in her pieces. Her work is an exploration of beauty and peace, inspired by her extensive travels to scenic destinations and her background in photography, which has honed her eye for detail and composition.

Throughout her career, Margaret has been recognized for her talent and dedication to her craft. She has been accepted into every juried show she has entered, a testament to her skill and the compelling nature of her work. Her paintings have been featured in prestigious venues such as the Mayo Clinic, Herberger Theatre, and Madison Center for the Arts, and she has received numerous accolades, including first-place ribbons in recent competitions. A notable achievement was her successful sale at the Milan Art Gallery in Florida, where her piece was selected from over a thousand entries and sold on opening night.

Looking to the future, Margaret is committed to sharing her visions with a broader audience, bringing the stories of the Southwest to life through her art. She continues to explore new techniques and engage with viewers, aiming to evoke emotional responses and spark thoughtful conversations. Her signature, "Gosia," a nod to her Polish heritage, graces each of her pieces, symbolizing her personal journey and the diverse experiences that inform her art. Through her work, Margaret McNeal invites viewers to experience the vivid landscapes and rich cultural tapestry of the Southwest, offering a window into a world that is both enchanting and profoundly inspiring.