My name is David Mackenzie, I am an Edinburgh born self-taught artist specialising in wildlife. 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 and the wildlife that inhabit it and 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 scenes to create an emotion and 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 and glazes to gain the right tone.

I have had two solo exhibitions, and I take part in an annual local charity art exhibition in Blairgowrie, where we fundraise for the Scottish Charity Air Ambulance, and where I usually donate a painting with all proceeds going to the SCAA.

In 2020 I came joint first place in an international art competition and in 2021 I received a Highly Commended award during an exhibition for the Association of Animal Artists.