My name is David MacKenzie, I am an Edinburgh born self taught artist specialising 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 and the wildlife that inhabit it and the state of this world is the drive that carries me forward through each painting. 
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 and at times gaining a translucent effect. 
In 2019 I had my first of two solo exhibitions. 
I regularly 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 competition and in 2021 I received a highly recommended award during an exhibition for the Association of Animal Artists. 
At present my work can also be seen in the Gallery Melrose in the Scottish Borders and at the Number 4 Gallery at St Abbs, near Coldingham. 
In my art I try to imagine the story behind the scene to create an emotion and give a connection for the viewer.