My name is David Mackenzie, I am an Edinburgh born self taught artist specializing in wildlife. My work has been in exhibitions in many parts of Scotland over the years.
I previously worked professionally in conservation as a deputy head keeper at Edinburgh Zoo for 10 years with big cats, bears and birds. I find this experience helps with my painting as it gives me an emotional connection to the story I’m trying to tell.
The natural world & the wildlife that inhabit it & the state of this world is the drive that carries me forward through each painting.
In my art I try to imagine the story behind the scene to create an emotion & give a connection for the viewer.
I always work in acrylics on canvas as I find them particularly responsive to the way that I work. I use them almost like watercolours, building up layer upon layer to gain the right tone & at times gaining a translucent effect.
I have had two recent solo exhibitions and I take part in a local charity fundraising event for the Scottish Charity Air Ambulance. This is an annual event where I donate a painting each year to raise funds for the SCAA charity.
In 2020 I came joint first place in an international art competition & in 2021 I received a Highly Commended award during an exhibition for the Association of Animal Artists.
At present my work can also be seen in the Number 4 Gallery at St Abbs, near Coldingham, as well as in The City Contemporary Art Gallery in Perth & I recently participated in a mixed exhibition at the Colinton Art Gallery in Edinburgh.
