Meet Amber Vittoria

Los Angeles-based artist Amber Vittoria explores the nuances of femininity and nature in her stunning acrylic paintings and line drawings. We had the opportunity to chat with Amber to learn more about her work, the inspiration behind it, and how we can collectively support women in the arts.

Hometown: Patterson, NY

Current city: Los Angeles, CA 

Alma Mater: Boston University, College of Fine Arts

Degree: BFA, Graphic Design

Currently reading: Why Zebras Don't Get Ulcers by Robert Sapolsky

Currently watching: The Great British Baking Show

Favorite food to make: Sugar cookies with my parents

Favorite food to eat: Pizza

Tell us a little bit about your background. What personal or professional experiences led you to the artistic path you’re on now?
By way of Boston University, I simultaneously worked full time jobs as a designer at Victoria's Secret, Vayner Media, and Avon, while freelancing making art and illustration in the evenings and on weekends. The courage to put myself and my work out into the world is why I am able to work for myself, for the past 5 years!

Most of your work is influenced by womanhood and femininity and accompanying societal expectations. Can you tell us why you’ve chosen to paint/create these topics in particular?
I struggled to see myself in fine art and in media; although we have made much progress, the struggle still exists. Because of this, I began to make work that I could see myself in, that I could resonate with. I am so fortunate that others see parts of themselves within my paintings and poetry as well.

Where do you draw inspiration from?
Majorly from nature: national parks, state parks, local parks. As humans, we ourselves are nature, and I try to merge those experiences in my work.

Have you faced any challenges as a woman in your industry?
Frequently, with one of the larger challenges being believed that gender plays a huge role in inequity both within and outside of the art world.

What are some ways we can collectively support women in your industry?
Working with women to showcase our artwork, tell our story, and say our names in rooms we have yet to be invited to.

How do you find work/life balance?
I schedule my days as much as possible, this way, I encourage myself to step away at a reasonable time each and every day.

What does wellness mean to you?
Wellness means listening to our minds, our bodies, when they are telling us to rest, eat, and experience joy.

What is one piece of advice that has helped you the most during your professional career?
You know your dreams best. Stick to those and not dreams created by others for you.

Find more about Amber and her work at www.AmberVittoria.com.