The true objective of a portrait artist goes beyond mere surface appearances; it involves exploring and capturing a person’s spirit. White effectively compares her artistic process to that of a method actor who fully immerses herself in a role. Her exceptional commitment to understanding her subjects’ lives requires insight into their inner motivations, values, and legacies, which elevates her work. This deep dedication aims to transform her art form into an expressive performance of human connection revealed through her unique perspective.
Victoria White’s collective showcases diverse fine art pieces, including stunning acrylic paintings on canvas, from mini prints to beautifully crafted pianos. Each artwork reveals intricate faces, vibrant personalities, and compelling figures, creating a deep connection between the artist and the viewer. These pieces spark meaningful conversations and invite us to gaze into the rich subtleties embedded in every detail. “My mission is to honor those who have impacted my life,” Victoria passionately shares, making her work not just art but a heartfelt tribute.
White’s transformation from a distinguished lawyer to an innovative healer is a narrative of a remarkable young woman who has unearthed her true purpose. She finds profound peace and fulfillment in her dedicated service to others, even in times of turmoil.
Victoria, a determined law school graduate, initially secured a position at a top firm in Silicon Valley, clearly indicating her exceptional skills and determination. Yet, propelled by a desire to make a genuine difference, she returned to her beloved hometown of New Orleans. For a decade, she thrived as a practicing partner, but the relentless stress of her profession began to take a toll on her health. Stricken by illness with no precise diagnosis, Victoria made the courageous decision to resign in 2017, prioritizing her well-being and opening the door to a more fulfilling future. “I was determined to step away from my previous life to focus on healing.” In 2018, she relocated to Los Angeles, seeking the solace of the beach and the ocean to embark on her recovery.
“My healing journey thrived on meditation, journaling, and self-reflection, focusing on harnessing my creativity. I consistently reminded myself of my return to work and envisioned that work as a vibrant expression.”
To kickstart her journey, White began reading *The Artist’s Way* by author Julia Cameron, which she views as essential for aspiring creatives. Noted, “Immersing myself in different creative outlets for pure enjoyment, I discovered I was entering a flow state which significantly aided in my healing by quieting the incessant chatter in my head.” Victoria explored various creative modalities, including sewing, collage-making and learning music, which led her to photography and painting. When a friend asked White to create a portrait of her three boys, she jumped at the chance. Soon thereafter, a surge of requests for commissioned portraits marked the inception of a rewarding and illustrious career.
“What I find truly captivating about painting is the way it allows me to lose myself for hours on end, making it feel like no time has passed.”
As a friend suggested, Muhammad Ali, known as the Champion of Freedom, was the first luminary White painted. “I didn’t know much about him beyond his heavy weight titles,” recalls Victoria. Reading his biography, *Ali: A Life*, gave her a deeper understanding of his world and the values he championed.
“I stumbled upon an idea that truly resonated with me: While many chase after fleeting happiness, a more fulfilling pursuit is cultivating a genuine interest in something. For me, this manifests as delving into deep rabbit holes of curiosity about various people. I’m continuously researching and diving into worlds that inspire my artistry. I often paint individuals with whom I feel a deep connection. Drew Barrymore has intrigued me since my childhood, and I would love to capture her essence in a painting. She approaches her life and work with genuine concern, along with a soft, approachable demeanor that encourages others to share their stories.”
Despite overcoming significant health challenges, White felt incredibly fortunate to be able to shape her career path. As she reflected on the person she aspired to become, she asked herself, “What does this person embody?” She explored this question through philosophical concepts and engaged in therapy. This transformative journey caught the attention of others, who remarked, “You seem to have gained valuable insights. You should consider becoming a life coach.” While Victoria was passionate about teaching and sharing her experiences and insights with others, the suggestion to pursue life coaching had never been posed until that moment.
“I love making art, but am I qualified enough to teach?” In 2022, Victoria was introduced to Indivisible Arts, a non-profit organization with the leading principles of cultivating creativity, consciousness, and connection through art. “I remember sitting in on an after-school session that included 30 minutes of purposeful teaching, a bit of yoga, and an hour of creative time where the children could travel from the art lab to the music lab. Rafael McMaster, the founder of the organization, led an inspiring class on the importance of gratitude, which encouraged students from age 7 to 22 to write down something in their sketchbooks that they were thankful for from their past, something they appreciated in the present, and something they would look forward to in the future they did not yet have. This exercise changed my perspective on life as I grappled with the loss of my legal career.”
Once the class was over, White approached Rafael with great enthusiasm in her voice and introduced herself, saying, Hi! My name is Victoria White, and I’m excited to work with you.” “Concentrating on what we’re grateful for in our future—things we don’t even possess—opens a powerful path for manifestation and intention-setting. This insight didn’t hit me until my mid-30s when I searched for direction in my life.”
The simple interaction sparked her weekly commitment to the center, and she continues to thrive as a volunteer in the after-school program while also teaching a class for high school students at the Richstone Family Center, specifically at Da Vinci RISE High School in Los Angeles.
“The standard high school environment often fails to support students facing significant life challenges. This initiative is not just about educating younger students; it’s an opportunity to uplift those on the brink of adulthood, many of whom lack stable parental figures. Our program equips students with essential emotional tools and principles that will guide them into adulthood, providing them with an outlet to express themselves and process their trauma. I truly believe in the positive changes we are making in their lives, as well as the personal growth I experience while paying it forward.”
White’s beneficence doesn’t stop there; she’s also been heavily involved in organizing donations from her art studio for the victims and evacuees of the Los Angeles fires and working with friends Kate and Bill Fishell, who are spearheading an incredible fundraiser called “The Day After Tomorrow,” which aids in raising funds for the Altadena and Pacific Palisades communities with the mission to help individuals and families rebuild their homes and reclaim their lives.
“This cause is particularly close to my heart, as I experienced the impact of Hurricane Katrina firsthand while living in New Orleans.”
When reflecting on how her experiences have shaped her both artistically and spiritually, White affirmed, “This journey is truly a never-ending story. Life continually throws challenges my way.” As I look back on the hardships and suffering, I’ve faced, I am profoundly grateful for how they’ve transformed me into the person I am today.” ☐
www.victoriawhitecreates.com
“I was excited to take part in the 2025 Grammy gifting suite, where I showcased pieces that stem from my larger artwork. I proudly introduced my latest creation: an iridescent puzzle featuring the legendary Cher, a piece that captures attention with its vivid colors. Each puzzle was presented to this year’s nominees as a powerful representation of creativity and support. In response to the recent fires in Los Angeles, I included a compelling message in every puzzle box, firmly outlining my commitment to assist those affected by this crisis. Together, we will illuminate the paths of those in need and make a tangible difference.” – Victoria White
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