Artist Statement

My artistic journey of painting ‘Dreamscapes’ from my travels took a transformative turn in 2021. While preparing for an exhibit focused on water, I discovered the intricate beauty and crucial role of kelp forests—an ecosystem both vital and vulnerable to climate change. This revelation ignited my commitment to ocean advocacy through art.

Initially, I relied on photographs from friends who dove into these underwater realms. Driven by a deepening connection to the ocean, I began taking my own reference photos pressed against the glass at the Monterey Bay Aquarium. In the past year, by confronting my fears of the ocean, I have begun painting from my own underwater photographs.

In 2022, I partnered with SeaTrees, a non-profit committed to coastal restoration projects globally. I continue to donate 10% of the proceeds from all kelp-inspired art to initiatives dedicated to restoring and preserving kelp forests.

Today, I am immersed in creating the ‘Prism’ series, where I explore the abstract beauty of kelp forests through large-scale paintings. Inspired by the interplay of light on kelp blades, my work reflects the refracted luminosity and the delicate balance of this marine ecosystem. Through my art, I seek to illuminate the ocean's wonders and advocate for its preservation.

https://www.mariemckenzie.com/aboutmarie

‘Restorative Field’

Part of the Golden Era oil painting series, this work explores diver footage from the successful SeaTrees Palos Verdes restoration project. In creating this piece, I focused on the baby kelp and the new growth. I reflect on how surfers, scientists, fishermen, marine biologists, and ocean lovers have come together to support the non-profit SeaTrees. Their collective efforts are making a difference, healing more than just the ecosystem. Through a partnership with SeaTrees, the purchase of this oil painting directly supports communities and scientists who protect and regenerate coastal ecosystems.

‘Sea Sound’

While working on this oil painting, I felt the movement of the kelp forest and experienced a profound vision of the ocean. In my mind, the various underwater sounds I had encountered came to life, and my imagination created a soundscape of dolphin and whale songs. I was deeply moved, shedding tears for the immense, shared love of our oceans. Through a partnership with SeaTrees, the purchase of this oil painting helps to protect and regenerate blue carbon coastal ecosystems.

‘In the Light’

Part of the Prism series, this painting captures the moment of stepping off a ledge and dropping into an underwater world illuminated by the sun’s rays. With my awkward large fins and surrounded by many other divers, I felt my fears were evident on the surface that day. It was only when I took a literal step off the back of the boat, anchored near the coast of San Diego, that I found myself in the light. Through a partnership with SeaTrees, the purchase of this oil painting directly supports communities and scientists who protect and regenerate coastal ecosystems.