Biography

Born in 1970 and based in Ballymena, David McKinney is currently pursuing a Master of Fine Art in Photography at the University of Ulster. His artistic journey started when he discovered the healing potential of photography through Belfast Exposed’s therapeutic photography programme. This newfound creative outlet became a powerful tool for self-expression and recovery, paving the way for his first solo exhibition, Beyond the Tide, in 2024. Supported by the Arts Council of Northern Ireland, this milestone marked McKinney’s emergence as an important voice in therapeutic art. He has also received continued recognition from the SANE Creative Awards Scheme, which supports artists affected by mental ill-health.

McKinney is due to participate in a panel discussion and deliver an artist talk at Belfast Exposed’s Healing Through Photography - Trauma & the Art of Recovery Conference 2025. His new solo exhibition, Seen/Unseen, will accompany the conference.

Artist Statement

My artistic style is experimental, using digital transformations and high-contrast imagery to create abstract pieces. This unconventional approach allows me to explore my emotional landscape in a therapeutic and introspective manner with the intention of sparking meaningful conversations around mental health. By manipulating my photographs digitally, I uncover images that resonate with my inner self, transforming personal experience into visual narratives that speak to universal struggles.

Reflections on the loss of three friends to suicide and my own journey of recovery after my breakdown, having been a missing person with suicidal intent, shape my photographic practice.