Amber Vittoria

@amber_vittoria is a New York based artist. her collaborations include: NBC, Warby Parker, Gucci, The New York Times.

How did your path in art begin? Did you study art in school/college? Did you always know you wanted to focus on art professionally?

I began drawing at a young age; my parents took notice of the joy art gave me, and asked if I’d like to take art classes outside of school. There were a few programs offered by our local library, and I loved it. As I grew older, I decided to attend art school at Boston University. I knew I wanted to work within the arts, but at the beginning of college, I wasn’t sure what path I’d lead as an artist. Because of this, I majored in design, which allowed me to explore several avenues medium-wise.

Your illustrations are colorful, bold, beautiful and empowering. What was the process in developing your artistic style? What inspires your work?

My work is inspired by the women in my life, the women I pass by in the world, and the women I read about. My style has developed slowly over time, leaning into artistic decisions I made subconsciously (such as how I approach form and facial details).

What advice would you give to a new artist looking for their own style? Do you think it’s important to have a specific style of work?

If your work is created by you, it is your style; it’s okay that not all of your work looks similar to each other.

Which illustration job has been your favorite so far? How has it changed your perception of your work?

I love working with The New York Times. The quicker turnaround times and themes have really pushed my work in an amazing way. 

Has art/creativity helped you in any way in your personal development?

The ability to create visually has helped me communicate emotions and thoughts in a way that is more difficult for me by the written word. 

The imagery you create has a strong female presence. Do you feel it is a visual vehicle for female empowerment?

My aim is for my work to empower other women, as the reason why I began creating it was to have work I could relate to and see myself in. 

How would you describe your daily workflow? Do you have any specific routines/practices that inspire your creativity?

Each day can change, but I love to draw and exercise in the mornings.

Do you ever hit a creative wall (feeling burned out, lack of creativity)? What helps you move past this?

All the time! I try to get outside for fresh air when this happens.

How do you approach a new project? Do you have any go-to rituals, music, inspirations?

I love to sketch freely at the beginning, loosening up my initial ideas. 

Do you have a personal mantra when creating that keeps you positive and focused?

It’s okay to make work that doesn’t work. 

If you could collaborate with anyone who would it be? Dream project?

I’d love to work with The New Yorker!