Tracy McKenna

Inspiration is never far away for me now that I’ve moved to Penryn in Cornwall, where the sea is always nearby. Living so close to the coast, with its ever-changing light and unpredictable weather, provides endless creative possibilities.

I grew up in a northern mill town on the edge of the Pennines. My early surroundings were a mix of industrial history and natural beauty, which has always influenced my work. I studied Art and Design at Nelson and Colne College before going on to the Arts University Bournemouth, where I graduated with a BA (Hons) and received a High Commendation from the RSA.

I enjoy working in all types of artistic medium including including oil, acrylic, gouache, pastel/chalk, clay, ink and watercolour and I have even tried my hand at signwriting! 

Now, living in Cornwall, I find the landscape here a constant source of inspiration—whether it's the wild coastline, the shifting seasons, or the rich artistic heritage of the area. It’s an exciting place to continue my creative journey.

I share my beautiful garden studio at our house in Treluswell with my daughter Sofia who recently graduated from Falmouth University where she studied texitle design.