101 x 76cm, Oil on Canvas
For Mackay
Daniel Mackay was one of those rare people who truly took the time to see others. He was kind, compassionate, and had a gentle way of making people feel seen and supported.
He supported and encouraged me as a young artist, and his belief in me was something I’ll always carry.
He had a real impact on me — not only when he was my art teacher, but when he was my friend. I know so many of his past students feel the same way.
I started this portrait of him the day I heard of his passing. At the time, I had no plan for it — it was simply how I began to process the loss.
The piece will now be sent to Ireland, to his beautiful wife Ann-Marie and their children, with all my love and respect.
This was my first portrait. But Mackay is someone I couldn’t not paint.
Rest easy Mackay 🩵
