Micah Mackenzie is a contemporary artist who works with found objects to create pieces that explore the intersection of nature, culture, and technology. His latest series of paintings reflect his concern about the state of our country.
"I would love to believe that I have Freedom in these Great States, but alas, that is not the case." Mackenzie said. "The right to feel normal is denied on these promised lands.
Mackenzie's work explores themes of identity and belonging, as well as how race and gender affect those experiences today. Micah Mackenzie, an artist from Asheville NC, has released a new collection of works that show how he feels about living in the United States. He says he's not sure whether he can call it a promised land anymore.
"I wanted to make art that was honest and real," said Mackenzie. "I felt like people were trying to deny the reality of the world around them—but then I realized I was doing the same thing."
Mackenzie's new works show what it feels like to live in America today: where you have freedom, but not really; where you feel normal, but not really; where you think everything is okay, but then you realize it isn't.
"In these great states," said Mackenzie, "you can't even feel normal without getting criticized for it."Mackenzie has been an active member of the community for many years serving on the PACC, ARTS AVL, and YMI Boards and I’m excited to show you what is next!
The artist states that these new works are meant to be seen by all Americans, regardless of their political affiliation or beliefs. "My goal is not to change people's minds about how they feel about things," he says. "I just want them to see what I see."
I wish would all see the light before it's too late.
