Emily Vezza
Austin, Texas
Emily Vezza is an Austin-based artist whose vibrant colored pencil works capture the beauty and emotion of everyday life. Largely self-taught, she left her graphic design career in 2024 to pursue art full-time following a major life shift. Her work is rooted in the belief that the ordinary holds extraordinary magic, inviting viewers to slow down and look closely. Emily is drawn to colored pencils for their boldness and detail, allowing her to express the world as she feels it.
Artist Interview
Q: Can you tell us about a time pitching your work, whether to a gallery, client, or brand that didn’t go quite as planned, and what you took away from it?
A: At the beginning of the year, I did something totally outside my comfort zone: I walked into a local gallery and introduced myself. It was my first time pitching my work in person, and while I was proud for taking the leap, the experience didn’t go quite as I had hoped. The curator let me know there wouldn’t be availability until next year, and when I showed her some of my recent pieces, her reaction was… well, pretty neutral. We just didn’t seem to click.
At first, I felt disappointed. But after sitting with it, I realized something really important: not every space is going to be the right fit—and that’s okay. This gallery catered to a very specific audience, and my work speaks to something different. I create for people who feel something when they see my art, no matter where they come from. That reminder gave me clarity. I’d rather find the right people than force the wrong fit.
Q: Which connection—mentor, peer, or collector—has fueled your practice the most, and how did that relationship or encounter shape where you are today?
A: It’s hard to choose just one person—I’ve been incredibly lucky to have a strong support system made up of mentors, collectors, friends, and family who have encouraged me every step of the way. But one connection that’s made a huge impact, especially with the growth I’ve experienced this year, is Enrique Del Angel, a talented metal artist I connected with on Instagram.