Born in Canandaigua, NY, Carol Amidi has lived most of her life in Pittsburgh, PA. She has been making art for over 20 years, more intentionally now and full time as her children are grown. As a figurative expressionist she works in acrylic and oil. She studied Industrial Design at Carnegie Mellon. While she didn’t study painting there she benefited immensely from the design curriculum, it has framed her work. Being a self taught painter has afforded her the luxury of not knowing the “correct” way to paint.  Carol recalls the moment in her life when she was sparked with the inspiration to make art, when as a youth she wandered into library stacks filled with art books. A world opened up to her. Some time later Carol discovered a quote by an artist, Max Ernst, regarding his philosophy. It resonated with her and has inspired her pursuit ever since. He wrote, “I succeeded in simply attending at the birth of all my works.” This quote has informed her process. ​Forces inspiring her work include artists Baselitz, Anselm Kiefer, Tapies, and the drawings of her children. 

​She is a member of Associated Artists of Pittsburgh and Group A. She has exhibited in numerous local juried shows including Associated Artists of Pittsburgh Annuals and the Three Rivers Art Festival.