Billy O’Neill

Seattle City Council has appointed Billy O’Neill to the Seattle Arts Commission. O’Neill is vice president of Chihuly Studio, where he is responsible for the day-to-day operations of artist Dale Chihuly’s international art studio. He serves as secretary on the Executive Board of Directors of the Seattle International Film Festival (SIFF) and on advisory boards for the Seattle Sounders and The Vera Project. O’Neill’s term on the Commission will last until Dec.31, 2012, when he will be up for reappointment.

In addition to his day-to-day work at Chihuly Studios, O’Neill founded Billy O Wines in 2005, pairing artwork by Dale Chihuly and wine by Eric Dunham of Dunham Cellars in a wine program
that has benefited more than 30 local non-profits to date including the Moyer Foundation, SIFF, The Vera Project, Gilda’s Club, Pratt Fine Arts Center, the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation and The Stranger Genius Awards through sales proceeds. 

O’Neill fills the position vacated by Eric Fredericksen, who served on the commission since 2009. We thank Fredericksen for his service.

The 16-member Seattle Arts Commission, citizen volunteers appointed by the mayor and City Council, supports the Office of Arts & Cultural Affairs. Seven commissioners are appointed by the mayor, seven by the City Council. One additional member is selected by the 14 appointed members, and another commissioner is selected through the YMCA’s “Get Engaged” program, which connects young adults with city boards and commissions.