Dismantling Stereotypes Through Art with Amber Vittoria

Amber Vittoria is a NYC-based illustrator with an impressive client roster including Gucci, The New York Times, Man Repeller, Condé Nast, and Instagram (to name a few). Her art is unique and eye-catching, with a focus on femininity and the female form. Read on to discover more about her painting style, tips for other artists, and how she stays inspired to create new work.

Hi Amber! Give us a brief breakdown of yourself, your background, and what you're doing now.

I'm an illustrator living and working in New York City; my work focuses on the accurate portrayal of women within art, and I've collaborated with like-minded brands, such as Gucci, The New York Times, and Instagram, on pieces that further said narrative.

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My work focuses on the accurate portrayal of women within art.
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Your art is so distinct and unique. How would you describe your style and where does your inspiration come from?

My process is a mix of digital and analog. I first block out color in Photoshop, and then I print the piece/apply the detail work by hand. In regards to inspiration, aiming to dismantle the societal stereotypes set upon women, is the crux of my work.

How do you feel about sharing your art with the digital world and other people regramming you? Should there be any protocol for crediting or asking permission to share other artists' work?

The ability to sell work and find brand collaborations through Instagram is truly life-changing. In regards to sharing work, if you are an individual, sharing an artist's work is a-okay! Just be sure to tag them in the post and in the post copy. If you are a brand, you need to ask permission to license the piece first, as stolen equity is an ever-growing issue.

"The ability to sell work and find brand collaborations through Instagram is truly life-changing."
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What top 3 tips do you have for other artists trying to share their work on social media?

1. Be proud of the work you make.
2. It's okay to be nervous when sharing, the nerves will subside over time.
3. Don't feel pressure to share everything.

What has been your proudest moment as an artist in your career so far?

There are several, but winning Young Guns 15 was a stand-out.

How do you stay inspired to create new work? What's coming up next for you?

Traveling, even if said travels are a walk to the park, keeps me inspired. I'm working on a few product collaborations, which I'm excited to launch soon!

"Be proud of the work you make."
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