Amy Smith | About the Artist
Amy Smith
Contemporary,
Mixed-Media Artist
Figurative art, Abstract painter,
eco artist, Muralist and teacher
Contemporary artist using stencils, collage work, illustrations, digital graphic design, paint, and spray paint, all to create one-of-a-kind pieces that reflect both my passions and my fury, juxtaposed through the lens of imagination. While some of my work is driven by political, social, and environmental injustice, most reflect my deeply-rooted optimism and belief in the power of the feminist spirit, unity and love.
My portraiture collage series is created from torn, recycled fashion magazines to represent both my love for fashion and my contempt for excessive consumption. Tearing fashion magazines that were carefully crafted to objectify women, I transform consumer messaging into words and images that celebrate the diversity and identity of both iconic and “everyday” strong, powerful women.
My "Iconic Women" series pays homage to the courage, strength, and independence of women for whom we all owe a debt of gratitude. The mixed-media approach offers a new perspective on women’s empowerment that leaves behind what society demands. My artistic roots began in New Jersey, but the rich California art community is where I found new levels of inspiration and mentorship.
Select exhibitions include Ontario History & Art Museum, Brand Library and Art Center's 51st annual juried exhibition Works on Paper.
Featured on Pendry West Hollywood digital billboard, the Affordable Art Fair NYC, LA Art Show, and Saatchi’s The Other Art Fair, with magazine features like Ventura BLVD magazine.
My pieces can be found in private collections and in several major city office buildings while other pieces have served as backdrops on popular tv and film sets including “Dear White People,”“Grownish,” “The L word”, "Picard" and many more. My murals include an 8-foot image of Frida Kahlo, featured at the San Diego North Park Art Festival and the painting of Maya Angelou in Hollywood, CA, was painted just before a peaceful protest in support of Black Lives Matter in 2020.I am a proud mother, activist, and an artist who never tires of exploring the edges of art, humanity, and hope.


Inspiration
My work ranges from murals, illustration, digital collage to original collage work surrounding themes of politics, feminism, culture, identity, and nature all to empower through love and connection
Techniques
I use different techniques including stencils, collage, illustration, digital graphic design, glass blown neon, paint, and spray paint all to create unique one of a kind pieces of art on wood or canvas.
career highlights
Painting the below "Maya Angelou" Mural in Hollywood, CA right before a peaceful protest supporting Black Lives Matter in 2020.
Dr. Maya Angelou mural in Hollywood, CA 2020