Artist Feature: Kristin MacKenzie — Coastal Calm and the Art of Living with Intention
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Nestled in a quiet, historic fishing village on the shores of Lake Michigan, fine artist Kristin MacKenzie paints not just what she sees, but what she feels. Her work is a reflection of the natural world that surrounds her—ever-changing skies, the hush of waves brushing the shore, and the rich, earthy tones of Michigan’s coastal landscape. It’s art that connects emotion to memory, color to calm, and place to heart.
Kristin MacKenzie with her artwork
At Rozee Living, we are delighted to feature Kristin MacKenzie and her serene, soul-filled paintings that speak directly to the beauty of everyday moments. Her work embodies everything we value: warmth, simplicity, elegance, and a deep-rooted connection to home.
From Architecture to Art: A Path Shaped by Design
Kristin’s journey to becoming a full-time artist is steeped in a rich design background. In 2011, she graduated cum laude from North Carolina State University with degrees in both Architecture and Environmental Design. Her training instilled in her a keen eye for composition, form, and balance—elements that are woven seamlessly into her artwork today.
Although she initially explored various paths within the world of design, Kristin found herself returning to her first love: painting. In art, she discovered a sense of freedom and emotional resonance that traditional design could never fully offer. Over time, what began as a personal creative pursuit transformed into a meaningful career grounded in self-expression and community connection.
Her work has not gone unnoticed. Kristin’s pieces have been featured in Southern Living, Detroit Design Magazine, The Knot, BuzzFeed, and Style Me Pretty, speaking to both her artistic talent and the emotional impact of her work.
‘Kiteboarders on Lake Michigan’ - by Kristin MacKenzie
Life in Leland: The Heartbeat of Her Inspiration
Kristin now resides in Leland, Michigan, a picturesque town that hugs the edge of Lake Michigan. It’s the kind of place that feels like it exists outside of time—quiet, beautiful, and rich in natural inspiration.
“I’m currently residing in a small historic fishing village along the coast of Lake Michigan,” Kristin shares. “I find endless inspiration in the natural beauty of my local scenery and strive to capture the many emotions emanating from Lake Michigan.”
Her artwork often features soft layers, muted blues, sandy neutrals, and fluid, organic lines. Whether it’s a distant horizon line, the mood of the lake on a gray morning, or the warmth of the sun dipping into the water, Kristin’s paintings exude tranquility. They invite you to breathe slower, to remember, to reconnect.
And while the visual aesthetic is undeniably beautiful, there’s something deeper going on in each piece—an emotional resonance that invites the viewer to feel.
“My hope is that my work brings people joy,” she says, “whether it’s taking them back to a special memory, giving them a moment of calm, or just adding a bit more beauty to their lives.”
‘Pink Moon’ - by Kristin MacKenzie
A Life Rooted in Creativity and Community
Kristin’s life is a beautiful extension of her art. She paints from her Leland studio and also owns and operates The Warren, a cozy, thoughtfully curated shop in downtown Leland. There, visitors can find her artwork alongside a selection of handmade goods that reflect the same intentional, heartfelt aesthetic.
She is also deeply involved in the creative community, serving as a board member of the Old Art Building, a local hub for artists, makers, and cultural events.
Outside of painting and running her shop, Kristin enjoys a slow and joy-filled life with her family. She hikes the wooded trails near her home with her two dogs, hunts for Leland Blues (unique local stones) on the shoreline with her husband and two young daughters, and sips oat milk lattes from her favorite handmade mugs.
These quiet, grounding routines are the very things that fuel her art. Each moment spent outdoors, each connection to nature or loved ones, becomes part of the emotional fabric of her paintings.
‘Morning Mist’ - by Kristin MacKenzie
Art That Feels Like Home
Kristin’s work is best described as art that feels like home. There’s a warmth and quiet confidence to her compositions that makes them ideal for spaces where comfort and calm are valued. Her pieces are particularly well-suited to interiors with coastal, minimalist, Scandinavian, or modern farmhouse styles—though their universal appeal makes them a beautiful addition to nearly any aesthetic.
Each painting tells a story. Maybe it’s of a memory: a favorite beach trip, a long walk with someone you love, or the feeling of summer air brushing your skin. Or maybe it’s simply about the desire to bring a sense of peace into your everyday life.
Whatever the narrative, Kristin’s work meets you where you are—and gently brings you home to yourself.
Why We Love Featuring Kristin MacKenzie at Rozee Living
At Rozee Living, we carefully curate artists who align with our vision: to help people create homes filled with thoughtful, cozy, and elegant art. Kristin MacKenzie’s work represents everything we love—natural textures, meaningful stories, and an artistic voice that’s equal parts soothing and inspiring.
Her paintings are not just decorations; they are experiences. They change the way a room feels. They ground us. They remind us to slow down and savor life’s quieter moments.
We are so proud to share her work with our readers and customers and hope that her art speaks to you the way it speaks to us.
‘Be Still’ - by Kristin MacKenzie
Shop Kristin MacKenzie’s Art
Kristin’s artwork is available in multiple formats—originals, fine art prints, and curated collections—making it accessible for every budget and space.
We warmly invite you to explore her offerings in person at her Leland shop, The Warren, or online at:
Her Etsy Shop
Her Website
Whether you're looking to elevate a quiet corner of your home, commemorate a meaningful moment, or simply bring more beauty into your space, Kristin’s work offers a perfect blend of artistry and heart.
Final Thoughts: Dreaming in Color
“Thank you for being here, for supporting my art, and for allowing me to do what I love every day,” Kristin writes. “Let’s keep dreaming big, colorful dreams.”
In a world that often moves too fast, Kristin MacKenzie invites us to pause. To look. To remember. And to dream. Her art is more than paint on canvas—it’s a gentle reminder that beauty, peace, and purpose are always within reach.
From her studio in Leland to the walls of homes across the country, Kristin’s paintings are bringing joy, calm, and connection to all who welcome them in.
From the ‘Glimmers’ collection - by Kristin MacKenzie
Rozee Living is honored to spotlight Kristin and we encourage you to explore her incredible collection. We’re certain you’ll find something that speaks to your heart. We also invite you to connect with us on Facebook, Instagram, and Pinterest and introduce us to your art enthusiast friends! Remember to visit us weekly to discover new artists. Until we meet again, revel in the exploration and have fun decorating with meaningful artist wall art!
