The Pecan Street Association board of directors is proud to present the art of one of Austin’s own native residents.
“The opportunity to be the featured artist for this spring’s Pecan Street Festival is an honor.” – Peter F. Ortiz
Peter F. Ortiz was born Dec. 20, 1960 in Austin, TX, and raised in Austin’s barrio Montopolis. His heritage in central Texas dates back several generations.
Peter graduated from A.S. Johnston High School in 1979, then attended Austin Community College and continued his education at the Otis Art Institute of the Parsons School of Design in Los Angeles, CA. From 1981-1991, he lived in LA, moving to Long Island, NY before returning to Austin in 1993. He strives to immerse himself in various cultures to soak up the rich aesthetics, which has added texture, depth and perspective to his experiences and his art. Peter’s work has been exhibited in numerous galleries, museums, cultural centers and universities throughout the United States, Mexico and Spain.
Peter utilizes a variety of techniques and mediums in his work and often features “elements of nature and the environment intertwined with the human form in various shades of colors that invite the viewer to see the beauty in diversity.”
“In my images or stories, I describe some as spiritual or earthly matters using people in not so ordinary colors to connect with all races, fish, water and plants. I try not to use contemporary elements or clothing in belief this keeps my work timeless.” – Peter F. Ortiz
For Peter’s original piece for this festival’s image, “Cinco de Mayo,” he explains that the color road is symbolic for the iconic Mexican dress. You can find his booth, next to the Pecan Street Association booths with posters and t-shirts of his design, at Sixth St. & Trinity during the festival.