Photography by Likeness Studio, Bailey Ann Templeton, Brooke Tauefa & Mackenzie Jones

Today we are exploring the studio of our newest LES artist, Mackenzie Jones. Jones is an Austin-based painter who is known for the environmentally-friendly materials she uses in her processes. Her one-of-a-kind paintings are made from natural stone texturing, recycled materials, and earth-made pigments, demonstrating her appreciation for the natural world. The studio exudes a serene, personal, and healing ambiance, perfect for her deeply emotive works. Jones' love for travel is reflected in her pieces, exploring color from the Mediterranean and texture in the Colorado mountains. Read on for an up-close look at Mackenzie's studio.

Our Q&A with Mackenzie about her Austin-based studio:

We are so excited to get the “behind the scenes” of your Austin studio. What was your main source of inspiration for designing your studio?

The historic charm of my studio spoke to me from the moment I saw it and has been the leading voice. The original wood ceilings and floors elicit a warmth that makes me feel transported. I keep all decor and furniture fluid throughout the space so it evolves with my work and never feels stagnant. 

Do you have any studio must haves? A podcast? Playlist? Snacks?

I start my day outside right before sunrise until mid-morning. I exercise, meditate, write, and cook before I transition into my studio. Once there, I have an intense flow for 4 hours. I then go outside again to eat lunch, meditate, and stretch. I end the day with a final 2-hour flow or I transition to computer work for the afternoon.

I always have herbal tea in hand, palo santo burning, and soft Italian or French music playing.

We are so intrigued by your uncommon method of using earth-made pigments, natural stone texturing, and recycled materials in your artwork. How did this idea of using earth-friendly materials come about and how have you seen it make a difference in your work?

When I was about 21 I felt this responsibility and calling to create, but to create with a coexistence with our Mother Earth. I was studying design in college and was frankly appalled at the amount of waste I realized the industry (and let's be real, all industries) create. I simply wasn’t pleased with my work and what its essence was unless I knew to its core it was helping make the world a more beautiful place.

How would you describe your artistic style in a few words?

I would describe my artistic style as abstract expressionism with an emphasis on natural elements and intuitive movements.

Fleurette Mackenzie Jones Shop now >

Her Muse Mackenzie Jones Shop now >

Many artists and creators consider the place where they create as important as the final artwork. Do you find that your studio is a haven that inspires you to produce your best work? Why or why not?

My studio is a constant inspiration and safe space that has become incredibly sacred to me. While the historical charm most definitely doesn’t hurt my creative process, I think the sentiment and love that an artist pours into their studio (and ultimately themselves in various forms of expression) is what leads to their best work.

We know you first started working with paint as a form of personal therapy, and it has evolved into a mission to offer collectors healing and joy. Are there any techniques or elements that beginning this way has helped you as a professional artist?

I think the most important technique I learned was how to truly paint from emotion, stillness, and intuition rather than logic. When it comes to the harmonious blend of creation and matters of the heart, I think Monet said it best “All I did was look at what the universe showed me, to let my brush bear witness to it.” 

What is your approach to cleaning your studio and making sure your space is maintained while also being home to your creative outlet?

I am a messy artist without a doubt, so I am a big fan of 15 or 30-minute “power cleans” every few days. I take it a step further and do a deep clean at the turn of every season to purge things. This keeps things breathable in the studio so when a spark of inspiration hits I have space to act on it.

Your one-of-a-kind paintings have such a signature and quality look to them. Besides painting, what other materials are you curious about bringing into your studio?

I am so drawn to clay and metals right now!

What are your favorite inspirations you find in the natural, everyday world that transform your art?

Gardening has become really expansive for me recently. I have always held flowers as a muse and, now that I have started working much more intimately with them, I find myself in awe of not only their beauty but also things like their fragrance and texture.

Shop Mackenzie Jones >