Artist Spotlight Series: McKenzie Dove

I love interior design and architecture, as well as organic elements found in nature. I also love to study work from past and current artists for inspiration. I’m especially inspired when I travel—Paris, in particular, always leaves me full of ideas.

What is your favorite piece? pictures if possible…

This 84″ x 60” piece Steven Gambrel used in his gorgeous Sag Harbor showhouse.

How has your area influenced your work?

We’re really lucky to have so many talented designers, architects, and artists in Birmingham. I have close relationships with many of our makers and designers, and I’m constantly inspired by what they are doing!

5 What is your favorite restaurant in ?

Automatic Seafood and Oysters. The chef, Adam Evans, is a rockstar, and his wife, Suzanne, is an incredible designer. The atmosphere is very chic.

What is your favorite cocktail?

Casa Amigos reposado neat.

How do you balance personal life and work?

I’m not sure that I do! There have been seasons when I’ve felt more balanced, as well as seasons that have been extremely hectic. My husband and I sold our house last year, renovated our current home, went on multiple extended trips, and he took a new job while I prepared for 4 major shows while maintaining commissions. It can also be hard to work in time to spend in my studio just painting for me. But luckily, I have an amazing team that helps keep me organized!

Dream trip?

We have so many. Our next big trip we’re hoping to plan soon will be to Madrid, Morocco, and hopefully Greece. I’ve always been influenced by Morocco. I had a Moroccan themed bedroom when I was 14. I painted the walls deep sienna, bought a carved headboard at a flea market, and started collecting African artifacts. It’s been a dream of mine to visit for a long time.

Dream commission?

I’ve always had a design crush on Rose Uniacke, and a commission for her clients—who include Victoria Beckham and Jo Malone—would be a dream.

I’m also obsessed with Axel Vervoort and Richard Shapiro.

Your favorite host / hostess gift to give?

I’m a candle fanatic, so I think they always make a good gift. My favorites are Mad et Len Terre Noire and Spirituelle. I also love to give a topiary or coffee table book.

Who is your style icon?

Mary-Kate and Ashley Olsen. I would love for my entire closet to be from The Row.

Your favorite up and coming artist?

Two of my favorite artists include Sylvia McEwan

and Elena Zoltnitsky.

Currently, they are both represented at Pryor Fine Art in Atlanta, which is one my favorite galleries to work with.

What is your most treasured possession?

My fur-babies, Sophie and Moose.

What are you reading?

Where the Crawdads Sing.

What are you listening to?

I’m really into the enneagram right now, so I love listening to enneagram podcasts while I paint. I think it’s a valuable tool for understanding ourselves, others, and relationships.