Mackenzie Thorpe is one of the biggest selling British artists of the last 30 years. His work is rooted in authenticity, embodied in emotional expression and always carries a message of hope.
Mackenzie’s journey has taken him from the shipyards of Middlesbrough to internationally acclaimed artist, and his working-class roots in the north of England inspire his atmospheric and poignant pictures.
Love and hope are key symbols in Mackenzie’s art, whether they are depicted in the nostalgic pride of his industrial heritage or dream-like skyscapes and landscapes.
From humble beginnings Mackenzie defied the expectations of society with a combination of pioneering style and unbridled passion. He has achieved global success in galleries throughout the UK, America, Japan and Australia while celebrity collectors include JK Rowling, HM Queen Elizabeth II and Tom Hardy.
Celebrating 30 years in the business in 2019, Mackenzie continues to blaze a trail for the artists who have followed in his footsteps. In his anniversary year Mackenzie’s work will be celebrated from the banks of the river Tees where he grew up, through the hills and dales of Yorkshire where he made his name, across UK galleries to the shores of America and Japan.
A new sculpture has been unveiled at the famous Tees Transporter Bridge and has already become part of the local landmark. It is f itting that, this industrial backdrop where Mackenzie once worked is now the site for the artwork. Over a number of years the bicycles have held a powerful position in Mackenzie’s work and in 2019 he is the off icial artist for the Tour de Yorkshire 2019, producing a new collection of cycling images resonate with cycling enthusiasts around the world for this global event.
This year Mackenzie also has the honour of being the off icial artist of the 2019 Welcome to Yorkshire garden at RHS Chelsea Flower Show. He has created an image specifically for the event, titled ‘Under the Moon and Stars’ , which captures the magic of a summer evening in Yorkshire.
Mackenzie uses his art to regularly support local and national charities. All of his charitable work relates back to important issues depicted in his art such as disadvantaged children, loneliness and hope.