Tammy Mackay

My work is a journey of feelings linked to an object, moment or past memory. Images are often conceptualised as a series, the most recent being my series called “HOPE and FEAR”. All are personal explorations of themes that are both layered in-process and layered in meaning. Animals and birds have become central to my current work and convey a subtle symbolism within their depiction.

I have a passion for printmaking which has always been my main form of expression. Etching and monoprint have generally been primary mediums, but I have always experimented with new techniques. More recently I have used photopolymer plates and drypoint. These techniques are often combined with hand-drawn or hand coloured chine collé. Exploring and developing new techniques opens up new possibilities which I feel are essential to my development as an artist and printmaker.

I grew up on a farm in the Eastern Cape of South Africa. I also studied in South Africa at Rhodes University, graduating with an Honours Degree in Fine Arts majoring in Printmaking. Although I now live in the UK, my work often reflects the imagery of where I grew up.

My work is exhibited in the UK and abroad. Recent exhibitions and art fairs include The Royal Academy Summer Exhibition (2019, 2015, 2014 & 2013), Royal West of England Academy, The London Original Print Fair, The Affordable Art Fair, The Other Art Fair, The Woolwich Contemporary Print Fair and the ING Discerning Eye Exhibition.

My work is held in many important private and public collections including the Scarborough Museum Trust, MTN print collection (South Africa), Rhodes University Alumni collection (South Africa).

View a selection of Tammy’s works below ↓