Jean Mackay
I am an educator, artist, writer, and naturalist—but not always in that order. I grew up in Troy, New York, traveled widely in my twenties, and eventually put down roots not far from where I began, just down the Hudson River near Schodack Landing.
What draws me in? Much of my work, as you can see in my sketches and paintings, is rooted in nature. For a long time, I’ve used art as a way to look more closely at the world around me. Sketching is a powerful tool for understanding and finding our place within a much wider world.
It has also opened many doors. My artwork has led to friendships, teaching opportunities with people from around the world, and the chance to write and illustrate The Nature Explorer’s Sketchbook in 2020.
Thank you for spending time here. Feel free to leave a comment, explore my workshops, or get in touch by email at jeanmackayart(at)gmail(dot)com.
All images on this site are © of Jean Mackay.
No rights of reproduction, nor any rights to the paintings/images, unless permission is granted by the artist.
Drawn In 
Absolutely Beautiful!
Thank you!
Love Love your style, Do you have any online classes. No looking for zoom type instruction.
Thank you.
Thanks Patty! I teach online through Winslow Arts Center. See my workshops page for current class offerings: https://jeanmackayart.com/workshops/
Jean – I just love the way you express your special moments with beautiful illustrations that capture the moment and the emotions. I love your style. I love your creativity and your hand writing. I can see the fluidity and the flow or quick natural artistic expression vs. the way I draw. I dwell too much in details and I work very slowly – I need to change my style. When I grow up I want to draw, paint, write just like Jean Mackay -(I’m 67!!!) Hope I can make the remaining years count. Do you have any tutorials on line? Any you-tube videos. Thank you so much for sharing such beautiful personal moments.
Hi Patty– You’ve got lots of time to figure out what style of painting works best for you and follow your path! You can find a few free programs that I’ve given at Winslow Art Center– just search “jean mackay”. You may have to sign up (free) to access them. I also have an upcoming class there and I always list new workshops on the website under the Workshops tab. I haven’t done YouTube videos (there may be one or two from other programs that were recorded). I try to include some tips each week on the blog so sign up to receive my posts in your inbox. Thanks for reaching out! — Jean
Jean your talent & work is magical & inspirational! – but I finally know enough about myself than to take on another project, particularly where I show zero talent. But it is such a joy to be able to pour over yours… I’m particularly enchanted wit one bird painting w/ straw, titled “inspiration”… is it possible to purchase a print?
Many thanks,
Dear jean, I am so enchanted by your talent and output, but finally know enough about myself not to take on another project for which I have absolutely no talent! In some instances as this I must be just content with the joy of following you and your amazingly moving art.
I would like to ask, however it it is possible to purchase a print of one that particularly spoke to me. It was titled “Anticipation”, and of a bird and straw….
I look forward to hearing from you…
Many thanks, Aine
Hi Aine- I’ll be in touch via email with more information.