How are women represented in figurative art? Can you tell the difference between figurative art created by a woman and a man? What is it about women painting women that stands out? Figurative artist, Amber Lia-Kloppel was kind enough to sit down with me and discuss these questions and so much more. In our conversation, we also touch on her time at the New York Academy of Art, why she chooses women as her subjects, voyeurism, confrontation, navigating motherhood as an artist, and so much more. I know artists like you are going to enjoy Amber’s unique and fascinating perspective. The Female Figure Throughout the ages, the woman’s figure has been explored by artists the world over. But with each artist, the inspiration is a little bit different. I wanted to know why my guest, Amber Lia-Kloppel was so drawn to painting the female figure. Amber opened up and shared with me that the reason she is so drawn to the female figure, in part, is because they are self-portraits. She means this both literally and figuratively as she occasionally uses herself as a model but she also sees a reflection of herself in the models and the work she creates that are represented by the female body. It was a joy to hear Amber’s take on figurative art and the portrayal of the female figure. Make sure to check out images of Amber’s work at the end of this post! Navigating an art career as a parent How do parents and mothers, in particular, manage their time in the studio? What does it look like to navigate an art career as a parent? How does parenting influence the artwork of an artist? Amber Lia-Kloppel was gracious and candid in our conversation as she shared her experience navigating her role as an artist and a mother. She told me about projects she created that reflected moments she shared with her daughter. Amber also went on to describe how parenting has brought her to cherish and make the most out of her time working in her studio. I got the sense from my conversation with Amber that parenting enhanced her imagination and scope in some fascinating ways. I’m curious to hear what you take away from my conversation with Amber. Evolving as an artist How have you evolved as an artist over time? Have you made subtle changes here and there or have there been dramatic shifts in your approach and style? What caused the changes you’ve made over the years? My guest, Amber Lia-Kloppel described for me a pivotal moment in her career as an artist when she started to attend the New York Academy of Art. It was in this environment that Amber developed and refined her approach. Amber told me about how she learned new techniques and enjoyed the freedom and permission to expand her abilities in this environment that challenged and empowered her. Have you had an experience like Amber’s? Learning how to let go of a painting As artists, when we create, we pour part of ourselves into the process and ultimately into our creations. What are the ramifications of this creative process when we are unable to complete a project? What happens to that energy and passion that were poured out? My guest, Amber Lia-Kloppel discussed this artist's dilemma with me in our conversation. I appreciated Amber’s honesty as she admitted that she still struggles with letting go of her paintings that she just can't seem to finish. She hates to let go because, as she has gotten older, her starts are better, so there is so much there to salvage. Amber also holds herself to a high standard, she wants every painting to be her best painting. Can you relate to Amber’s struggle? Outline of This Episode [1:50] I introduce my guest, Amber Lia-Kloppel. [3:00] Amber talks about how she got started as an artist. [10:00] What attracts Amber to painting the female figure? [15:00] Amber’s process and using herself as a model. [19:30] How Amber incorporates being a mother in her painting process. [23:00] Amber talks about approaching the canvas. [29:30] Pivotal moments in Amber’s career. [35:00] How art scho