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Martin O'Neill is a multi-disciplinary artist and creative producer whose work embodies the ethos of magical realism, a concept borrowed from literature to express how he transforms everyday experiences into extraordinary possibilities. His practice explores the absurdity and magic within the ordinary, posing questions like, "How might a river become a radio signal?" or "What if a market traded in questions instead of goods?" By offering subtle shifts in perception, Martin's work reveals new layers of truth, often through intangible mediums such as film, sound, light, voice, or words. However, the form is always guided by the community, the space, and the idea itself.

At the heart of Martin’s work is an unyielding dedication to uncovering new possibilities rooted in collective experiences and emancipatory values. His projects often emphasise the significance of community gathering, the power of play, and the democratic exchange of stories and ideas. Through these shared moments, his work creates spaces that foster connection and activism, addressing collective aspirations like alleviating loneliness or empowering towns to reclaim public spaces.

As Artistic Director of the Stove Network in Dumfries & Galloway, Martin works across disciplines to drive innovation at the intersection of community development and urban planning. He leads a creative placemaking approach that uses art to deepen a community's understanding of place, rights, and belonging. Through collective visioning and open invitation, the Stove challenges conventional views of self, community, and environment, cultivating a more inclusive and empowered sense of belonging.