Andrea McKenzie‘s unique blend of “Art Meets Fashion and Lifestyle” has put her on the map as one of art’s new international rising stars.
Photography: Bob Mackey, Ty Pleas
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Andrea McKenzie is a self-made artist who transformed her passion into a thriving career. The Trinidad and Tobago native moved to the United States six years ago with plans to gain greater exposure, while pursuing a chance to grow artistically and professionally. After overcoming obstacles, the award-winning creative has found success where “Art Meets Fashion and Lifestyle.”
AcknowledgeMINT: Over the last few years you’ve been setting social media on fire posting fashion-forward images and videos of yourself in front of these shiny, beautifully crafted art pieces. Did you always know that being a full-time artist was your calling?
Andrea McKenzie: I knew I was destined to be a full-time artist when I realized that creating art was not just my passion but also my purpose. This clarity came after losing my job, which led me to reconnect with my creative essence—a source of solace and healing. As I poured myself into my art, I saw how deeply it resonated with others and the meaningful emotional connections it fostered.
You were passionate enough to relocate from your homeland of Trinidad and Tobago to pursue your dreams in the United States. What were some of the earlier challenges you faced?
One of the immediate hurdles was adjusting to the pace and scale of life in the USA! It’s vastly different from the warmth and familiarity of home. I also faced the emotional difficulty of leaving behind close family, friends, and the vibrant Caribbean culture that shaped me. Financial stability was another challenge, as I had to establish myself in a competitive and often unpredictable art industry while navigating the complexities of a new environment.
You had the complexities of a new environment and didn’t come here with a support system or industry connections. So how did you go from being this struggling unknown to an award-winning international artist showcasing your pieces to celebs like Larenz Tate, Tabitha Brown, and Bobby Brown in such a short time?
The journey from being unknown to an award-winning international artist with celebrity clientele has been driven by persistence, passion, and innovation. By merging “Art Meets Fashion and Lifestyle,” I set myself apart, creating meaningful work that resonated widely. I leveraged every opportunity to showcase my art, from local exhibits to global platforms, while building connections with those who valued my vision. Social media became a key tool for expanding my reach and connecting with collectors. A breakthrough commission from a high-profile client led to word-of-mouth referrals and greater opportunities. Through hard work, authenticity, and storytelling, I’ve built a career that continues to inspire and grow.
How did your upbringing and education help prepare you for the business side of your career?
My upbringing and education played a pivotal role in preparing me for the business side of my career. Growing up, I was surrounded by a culture that valued resilience and resourcefulness, which instilled in me the determination to turn challenges into opportunities. Academically, I gained knowledge in business and marketing, which became invaluable as I navigated the art world. Understanding branding, audience engagement, and strategic marketing allowed me to position my work effectively and reach broader markets.
At what point did you make a conscious effort to lean into being the face of your brand? And how intentional was it for you to incorporate fashion into your brand?
I made a conscious effort to lean into being the face of my brand when I realized that art is deeply personal, and people connect not only with the work but also with the artist behind it. Being the face of my brand allowed me to share my story, my journey, and my vision, creating a deeper connection with my audience. This approach also made my brand more relatable and memorable, which is essential in a competitive industry.
Incorporating fashion into my brand was both intentional and natural. Fashion, like art, is a form of self-expression, and I saw it as an opportunity to expand my creative narrative. By merging “Art Meets Fashion and Lifestyle,” I was able to showcase my work in dynamic and accessible ways, broadening its appeal and creating a multidimensional experience for my audience. This synergy has been instrumental in defining my brand’s uniqueness and elevating its impact.
What are some of the things that you haven’t accomplished yet in business that you look forward to doing?
I have several exciting goals that I’m still working toward in my business. A major focus is expanding my brand internationally, reaching more diverse audiences, and connecting with art lovers and collectors across the globe. I’m also eager to form new collaborations with brands, especially in the realms of fashion, design, and lifestyle, to continue blending art with other creative expressions.
Building a more sustainable and scalable business model is another priority, allowing me to grow my team and delegate tasks so that I can dedicate more time to my creative work. I also hope to host larger exhibitions and deepen my involvement in art philanthropy, supporting causes that resonate with my values and using my platform to inspire others. Ultimately, I’m focused on the continued growth of my brand, forging lasting partnerships, and expanding my reach, all while remaining true to my artistic vision.
