VR Rivera is a classically trained illustrator and painter based in Portland, Oregon, known for colorful, and at times surreal, portraits and nature-themed artworks. Operating under the online handle "winterteeth," Rivera's artistic voice is shaped by a dual background of growing up on a remote mountainside and later living in a dense urban environment. Their work balances these influences to create vibrant pieces that encourage viewers to appreciate both the small details and the grand spectacle of the natural world. Although they attended art school for three years, Rivera chose to drop out to pursue greater creative freedom, a move that led to a vibrant career creating art for both publications like Wired and brands like Maker's Mark, in addition to their fine art and commissioned work.
Living in Portland, Rivera maintains a robust online presence, where they share their creative process and latest work with a large following on platforms like Instagram. In addition to gallery shows and client-based illustration, Rivera also offers prints and original artworks for sale through their personal website. Their commitment to using their art for a positive impact is also evident in their participation in fundraisers that align with their values, such as using their art to support legal funds for impacted families.
