Biography

Dr. Andrea McKenzie (Hon.) is a celebrated mixed media contemporary artist whose vibrant, culturally rich works celebrate diversity, identity, and resilience. Renowned for her bold color palettes, layered textures, and innovative use of materials such as crushed glass, diamond dust, wood, metals, cement, styrofoam, and acrylic, Andrea’s art has captivated audiences worldwide and earned her recognition as a visionary in contemporary art.

Her works have been exhibited in prestigious institutions, including the Hammonds House Museum, the Emma Darnell Aviation Museum, and the National Museum of African American Music. Andrea’s distinctive aesthetic has made her highly sought after by elite collectors and prominent cultural organizations. In a major collaboration with the Steve & Marjorie Harvey Foundation, her mixed media masterpiece Portrait of Sadewas featured and auctioned at their prestigious foundation golf tournament. Her impactful artwork honoring Madam C.J. Walker was also featured in collaboration with the foundation, securing the final bid at the Invest Fest VIP Gala Auction by Monyetta Shaw Carter and her husband, Heath Carter.

Andrea's highly collectible pieces have been acquired and commissioned by notable public figures and icons, including NBA legend and Hall of Famer Julius Erving, Sheryl Lee Ralph, Bobby Brown, Akon, and Sydney Sweeney. Her creativity extends far beyond the canvas; she regularly curates impactful exhibitions that foster deep dialogue, healing, and community empowerment.

In recognition of her profound contributions to the arts and society, Andrea was awarded an Honorary Doctorate in Humanities (Honoris Causa) by the United Graduate College & Seminary International (UGCSI) in 2025. She is also the recipient of the Vanguard Award for Excellence in Art (Caribbean American Heritage Awards, Washington, D.C.), the Pinnacle Award for Excellence in the Arts, and was named one of ATL Plus Magazine’s “50 Most Powerful Women in Atlanta.”

Raised in a family deeply rooted in the vibrant traditions of Carnival, Andrea’s early exposure to creativity, performance, and cultural expression laid the strong foundation for her artistic journey. Today, she continues to inspire as an artist, curator, and advocate for art therapy—using her platform to empower communities and uplift the next generation of creatives, particularly young women pursuing their artistic dreams.