An introduction to Elspeth J Mackenzie
My Journey as an Artist
Hello and welcome to my first blog post! I’m Elspeth, a Scottish artist and coastal rower based in Edinburgh. I’m so glad you’ve found your way here and I’d love to share a little about my journey and the inspiration behind my art.
A Lifelong Connection to the Coast
From my earliest memories, the sea has been a constant companion. As a child, I was a dinghy sailor and I'm now a coastal rower and sea swimmer. Growing up in Scotland, I was always drawn to the wild beauty of the coastline - the everchanging skies, the rhythm of the tides and the quiet strength of nature. These landscapes have shaped not only my art but also the way I move through the world.
Art as a Place to Pause
Modern life can feel rushed and stretched thin and I’ve often turned to painting as a way to slow down, breathe more deeply and reconnect with myself. My work is rooted in nature: wide skies, quiet harbours and small moments in time. Each piece I create is an invitation to pause - a gentle reminder to come back to yourself, even if just for a moment.
The Heart Behind My Work
I paint to express the joy of being by the sea, the power of nature and the beauty found in fleeting moments. Colour and movement are at the core of my process; I love working with vibrant acrylics, layering expressive brushwork with marks from pencil, charcoal and watercolour crayons.
Teaching and Community
For over ten years, I had the privilege of being a lead artist with Tayside Healthcare Arts Trust. I devised and lead art workshops for people living with long-term health conditions, including stroke survivors. These experiences have deepened my belief in the power of creativity to heal, connect and uplift. I also ran my own private mixed media workshops for all abilities.
I’ve seen how art can offer a sense of agency, joy and community - no matter where you are on your journey.
My Own Creative Space
At home, I surround myself with colour and nature. My living space is filled with natural light, white walls, wooden floors and an eclectic mix of art and plants. It’s a place that feels both energising and restful - a daily reminder that creativity and beauty can be woven into the fabric of everyday life.
An Invitation
Thank you for being here and for taking the time to get to know me and my work. Whether you’re a fellow artist, a collector or simply someone who loves the coast, I hope you find something here that resonates with you. My wish is that my art offers you a place to pause, breathe, and feel grounded - just as it does for me.
If you’d like to follow along, I’ll be sharing more about my process, inspiration and tips for bringing colour and calm into your own home in future posts. I’d love to hear from you - what draws you to art or what brings you a sense of peace in your own space?
With warmth,
Elspeth
