"The moral of the story is work with what you have. Never fear what may happen because everything works towards something great." This was the big takeaway, the overall lesson learned from the pandemic by our Prompt competition winner, Mackenzy Miranda. The 19-year old Scarborough-based artist, with applying to this competition, wanted his art to be more representative of him on a personal level. During the pandemic, he realized the importance of being more transparent and open with the material he chose to put out. 

 

Currently completing an Honours Bachelor's Degree in Animation at Sheridan College, Mack works in animation, digital design, drawing, and physical mediums like rugs and clothing. His primary influences come from his appreciation for comics, collectibles, and digital media like animation. His unique style was derived from multiple inspirations, including Spider-man, Akira, and Scott Pilgrim. He recalls art always being there for him "no matter what." As a child, he was amazed by the characters he saw on TV and in movies. He was taken with the concept and practice of visualizing his thoughts and putting them on paper. Over the years, he has created a visual universe of his own ideas and imagination that he came to rely on while navigating the obstacles of isolation posed by the pandemic. 

 

This visual universe is depicted throughout Mackenzy's artwork. He features several characters, all of which he created himself, to show how his creations kept him company amid the pandemic isolation. His art pieces also depicted other pandemic plights using his unique style. In his piece "Errands," he highlights the development of a stronger relationship with his older sister, whom he naturally spent more time with during quarantine. In the illustration featuring Hellfire, his character inspired by Marvel's Ghost Rider, Mack retells the celebration of finally getting his driver's license after months of delays due to COVID restrictions. 

 

It can be drawn from his artwork that the pandemic had adverse effects on multiple areas of his life like it has for many. Still, through all the physical, emotional, social, and academic stress, "creating was the only motivating factor that kept me moving forward regardless of what the situation was.  Art has always accompanied my health and growth." 

 

He describes the pandemic as a fresh start, a clean slate to rework himself within his artistic interest, and aside from it. In the end, it was all a blessing in disguise. 

 

Check out his Instagram, @mack_sm, and his Twitter, @Mack_sm_, for updates on upcoming projects and life!

For commissions or other inquiries, contact Mack at mirandamackenzy@gmail.com

​