As a visual collector, MacKenzie instinctively gathers these transient moments, observing them carefully before storing them in her subconscious to then, in time, reappear unbidden in her paintings. Her studio process is intuitive, often allowing the work to evolve in unexpected ways. Rarely beginning with a firm idea of how a piece will resolve, Shona embraces the unpredictability of the process, letting the image unfold through layers of texture and expressive mark-making. The resulting works are rich in depth, with translucent acrylics and tactile surfaces that invite the viewer to engage with the emotional resonance of each piece. Her artistic practice is defined by a reverence for her sense of place, reflecting her dual heritage from New Zealand and Scotland. Her work is a personal reflection of belonging, echoing the generational memories and emotional ties to the lands that have formed her sense of home. Like many New Zealanders, her family’s history spans countries in both the northern and southern hemispheres, grounding her in a complex sense of dual identity. Through her works, Mackenzie reflects on the layers of memory and emotion that define both personal and collective histories, exploring how place, family, and heritage shape who we are.
Mackenzie studied at the Scottish College of Textiles in Glasgow and in the Scottish Borders before completing her studies in Education at the University of Auckland. Alongside her artistic practice, she has a background in creative design and pedagogy. After a lengthy career in teaching, Mackenzie returned to her art practice full-time in 2021. She now works from her open studio at Villa Studios in The Historic Village, Tauranga, where she creates her expressive works, teaches workshops, and actively contributes to the promotion of visual arts within the Tauranga community.
Parnell Gallery has represented Shona Mackenzie since 2024.