NIGHT OWL STUDIO
FUNK ZONE,
SANTA BARBARA, CA
CONTACT FOR
STUDIO APPOINTMENT
FUNK ZONE,
SANTA BARBARA, CA
CONTACT FOR
STUDIO APPOINTMENT
About Pedro de la Cruz
The art of Pedro de la Cruz reflects a deep cultural mosaic which began with his parents who were born in two very different parts of Mexico -- Sonora and Jalisco. Born in Baja California, Pedro remembers selling popsicles in the streets to get by. Still, Pedro remembers being the best at drawing in his class throughout his early school years -- and that art was a sanctuary especially during tough times. In the 1980s, the de la Cruz’s moved to the United States and later settled in Santa Barbara.
As he became fluent in English, even as an introvert, Pedro found that art was the best way for him to communicate, be accepted by others and open doors to opportunity. Mentored and encouraged by several art teachers at Santa Barbara High School, Pedro continued to excel at learning color and design; as well as architectural drafting, at Santa Barbara City College. His uncle commissioned his first piece while still in high school and this belief and support in him kept Pedro painting and drawing through college and beyond.
As he became fluent in English, even as an introvert, Pedro found that art was the best way for him to communicate, be accepted by others and open doors to opportunity. Mentored and encouraged by several art teachers at Santa Barbara High School, Pedro continued to excel at learning color and design; as well as architectural drafting, at Santa Barbara City College. His uncle commissioned his first piece while still in high school and this belief and support in him kept Pedro painting and drawing through college and beyond.
Influences |
Pedro de la Cruz’s influences have been both local and traditional. Primarily a strong colorist with post-modernist and cubist tendencies, he admires Pablo Picasso, Henri Matisse,
Amadeo Modigliani, Frida Khalo, Andy Warhol, and Jean-Michel Basquiat. He is inspired by music, architecture, and a warm cup of coffee in the morning. Pedro enjoys people and his art is influenced by the diversity of his community. the Santa Barbara based artist believes in positivity and light, and he intends to bring joy through the colors of his art. |
