Today we’d like to introduce you to Anthony Ortiz.
Hi Anthony, can you start by introducing yourself? We’d love to learn more about how you got to where you are today.
There wasn’t any real plan or thought behind it. In all aspects, the arts have always been a part of me. Theater, film, acting, and painting were just something that I truly enjoyed. I fell into art during covid, probably like many people whose passion and dreams sat dormant for years because sometimes life takes over. During covid, I was in my garage and just fussing around when I found an old box of acrylics to use them, but it sat in my garage for several years. I looked at the box, and this overwhelming feeling overcame me to paint. So, I went out and purchased some cheap small canvases at Hobby Lobby, began experimenting, and something just awoke in me. I know it sounds spiritual, but it was just the same when you have an encounter – spiritual – it awakens something inside of you. That’s how it started, and it just continued from there.
Would it have been a smooth road, and if not, what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
Smooth would be the last word I would use. Anyone who attempts the arts in any form must understand that it can be highly lonely; it is incredibly tough and unforgiving. But you must believe in yourself no matter what anyone says. I had many struggles of doubt. I am not a trained artist. I am self-taught, so the learning curve is significant. So, trial and error is how I learned—lots of frustration, creative mental block, and so on. You have to push through those seasons and grow. Take those seasons as a time to move to the next level. I received a lot of reinforcement from friends and family who supported my work, which helped me push forward. My wife was my biggest supporter. She had told me for many years that I should paint.
Let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
I am an abstract artist working with acrylics and oil. I am a massive fan of the New York School of Art, Pollock, Krasner, Motherwell, Still, Rothko, and De Kooning. I love Mid-Century art, and this artist has heavily influenced many of my pieces. I am known for this style. In fact, at an art show, someone came to my booth from a restaurant and said the first thing he thought of was the New York School of Art. Then he brought a painting.
Let’s end by discussing what matters most to you and why.
Art matters. We have lost this education for children; art is also therapy. Art in therapy allows someone to work out deeply rooted issues. I know I have.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.anthonyortizstudios.com
- Instagram: @anthonyortizstudios
Image Credits
Image copyrights Anthony Ortiz @anthonyortizstudios www.anthonyortizstudios.com
