Artist Interview: Amanda Valdes

Over the next few weeks, we will start introducing the artists participating in the inaugural we. art gathering! It’s always nice to hear a bit more of the artist’s background, their process when it comes to creating and how they’ve evolved over time. In that spirit, we will be posting interviews we conducted with each of the artists so you can become a bit more familiar with them. Super excited to have Miami and Portland-based Amanda Valdes in the mix, scroll down to learn more about Amanda and her style!

Where are you from originally? 

AV - Miami, FL

How did you first get into art? 

AV - My mom and grandparents introduced me to painting, drawing and public art at a young age, plus I had an incredible art teacher in elementary named Mrs.Morrison ️ I became a make up artist for Mac cosmetics around age 18 which lead me to exhibiting my canvas work then eventually starting my first mural in 2008. My first wall was 20’ x 60’ and prior to that I had never painted anything larger than a 3’ x 4’ canvas. Definitely was a little intimidating but ultimately lit the fire to create more large scale works. 

What is your favorite medium?

AV - It varies week to week based on what headspace I’m in. Spray paint is always a favorite but comes with its challenges, like all mediums. Acrylic has been my consistent go to from the beginning, so that’s a favorite as well :) 

What inspires you? 

AV - Books, movies, nature, relationships, travel, life and living in general  - the list is endless. Whatever connects in the moment. 

Why do you do what you do? 

AV - I can’t imagine pursuing anything else. I feel like creating is a essential part of who I am and I’d be pretty lost without it. 

What is your creative process approaching new projects?

AV - It varies based on the project specifics, but generally I try to jump in, connect with a source of inspiration and let the path unfold naturally. I learned early on that each project comes with its challenges which keeps it exciting and leads to artistic growth. 

How has your style evolved over the years?

AV - I feel like it’s matured and evolved as I have, especially in terms of subject matter and execution. As far as style, it’s become less illustrative and more detailed generally speaking. I enjoy experimenting more and try to pay attention to whatever is stoking the fire. 

What is your lifestyle outside of art? 

AV - Haha, I feel like my lifestyle revolves around art but outside of painting I enjoy hanging with my family, friends and dog, traveling, reading, baking, hiking, being outside etc. 

If you could travel anywhere to create art, where would it be?

AV - The list of places I’d like to travel and create art is a hefty one, but I’d love to paint more in Europe and make it over to Thailand and Bali soon. I’m missing Australia quite a bit so I’d love to head back that way too. 

Do you listen to music while you're creating? If so, what are some of your current tunes? 

AV - Absolutely - it’s be difficult to paint without music. My current playlists include anything from Billie Holiday to Bring Me The Horizon. I’ve been listening to Rainbow Kitten Surprise, Dope Lemon, Angus & Julia Stone and Chance the Rapper while painting a lot lately. 

What role do you think artists have in society? 

AV - I feel like artists play a significant role in society, although sometimes that role is downplayed or overlooked historically. Artists, musicians and designers are story tellers and act as catalysts in society in many ways. Creatives quite literally color and create the world around us. 

What helps you get "unstuck" creatively? 

AV - Disconnecting is big these days for me. It’s easy to become mentally and creatively overwhelmed with so much active outside noise (social media/phones/news/politics/etc). Yoga, meditating, getting outside for a few are all helpful for that. Then again, sometimes it’s best to push yourself and start somewhere, typically something will spark and lead to new ideas. 

Who are your biggest influences?

AV - My creative friends rank high, as well as people I respect in other creative fields. I feel pretty lucky to have friends who inspire me to push myself farther and sincerely want to see each other thrive. As far as early influences, I grew up watching Tim Burton movies and was (and still am) Halloween-obsessed. Artists like Fafi and Miss Van were influential as well, especially when I was getting started in the street art scene.