What started as a simple lockdown pastime has blossomed into a remarkable success story for Makenzy Beard, an 18-year-old artist from Swansea, South Wales. When her school shared a photo of her GCSE art coursework on Twitter, Makenzy never imagined it would launch her into a lucrative art career.
During her sixth form years at Millfield Independent School in Somerset, Makenzy’s talent caught the eye of the public and art galleries alike. Her striking oil painting portrait quickly became an online sensation, leading to a representation deal with a prominent Cardiff gallery. Since then, she has sold 34 original paintings and over 50 limited edition prints, some priced as high as £25,000. Her total earnings have soared well into six figures—an extraordinary achievement for someone so young.
Yet, Makenzy’s success hasn’t altered her passion for using art to give back. A committed fundraiser, she has raised more than £30,000 for various charities and recently received a nomination for a prestigious leadership award. Alongside her flourishing art career, she also represents Wales in the women’s hockey squad, demonstrating her dedication both on and off the canvas.
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Reflecting on her journey, Makenzy shared, “I never thought about whether I could paint until lockdown bored me. I found some old canvases and started painting. When my school tweeted one of my pieces, everything changed overnight. But it’s never been about the money for me—that’s why raising funds for charity means so much.”
Her art exhibitions sold out while she was still completing her A levels. Although she received university offers to study philosophy, she has chosen to take a gap year to focus entirely on her art career. Makenzy remains committed to creating art that brings joy and helps others, including fundraising for her old school, local hockey club, and Ukrainian refugees.
Looking ahead, Makenzy plans to hold an exhibition in London with proceeds supporting mental health charities. Her nomination for the Ascona Group Child of Wales Awards reflects her leadership and charitable impact. As she moves forward, she hopes to continue blending her creative talents with meaningful causes.