“Larry Ortega is a master of multiple disciplines and blends his classical training in painting with an intuitive approach to sculpture. From his earliest days of brush and canvas, Larry has continually explored the vast landscapes of artistic expression. His journey has led him to the world of sculpture, where he creates as a self-taught sculptor, using resin and rare earth minerals as a primary medium.”
A Worldview in Artistic Expression
As an artist, my work reflects themes deeply rooted in a biblical worldview. The study of contemporary religion and ancient cultures influences my writing. That “backdrop” has become the lens through which I explore the intersection of the physical world within a spiritual backdrop. Ancient symbols contribute to the narratives that capture thoughts of the transcendent nature of the desert, such as “Cease and Begin” on my blog page.
Spiritual Narratives and Symbolism
Central to my artistic aesthetic is the portrayal of spiritual narratives found in the Bible. I seek to capture the profound moments of divine encounters. Stories from the Book of Exodus have inspired my sculpture and mixed-media works. I illustrate my writings using the AI images I create. “Woman Caught in Adultery”
I use painting, photography, video, AI, and sculpture to represent symbolic elements of [Images of an Invisible God.]
Light and shadow play crucial roles, symbolizing the eternal struggle between good and evil and a light that promises everything, illuminating the darkness surrounding it.
Desert Wilderness and Divine Inspiration
Our studio/home is in a secluded canyon in the desert hills overlooking Phoenix; the panoramic skies and arid landscapes serve as both a backdrop and a muse. The stark beauty of the desert mirrors the wilderness experiences of biblical prophets and patriarchs. Just as they found divine revelation and strength in desolate places, I found inspiration in my surroundings’ solitude and raw beauty. This connection to the natural world is evident in my work, where desert living becomes a metaphor for the spiritual journey.
Fusion of Tradition and Contemporary Art
My classical training as a painter and self-taught sculptural techniques allow me to blend traditional artistic methods with contemporary sensibilities. This fusion results in a unique aesthetic that honors the time-honored practices of the past while embracing modern innovation.
My Work
My sculptures interact with the surrounding space. Much like a prism bending light waves, I manipulate resins, rare earth minerals, and their intrinsic properties to absorb and re-emit light, creating a captivating dance of illumination and shadow. This distinctive use of materials allows me to channel the transformative power of light.
This is the latest addition to my artistic collection of sculptures using rare earth elements known for their intense light and wave spectrums. These elements infuse my work with a luminosity that transcends the physical and touches the spiritual.
The sculptures are unique. In the dark, the work can harness incandescence through the medium. This glowing evocation strikes a chord with our innate spiritual nature, resonating with viewers on a deeper, more intrinsic level. Each piece offers a visual experience and a spiritual journey. My work is a testament to the transformative power of art, light, and the human spirit.
The Art of Larry Ortega
Studio/Home of Larry & Sandra Ortega
Our studio space is evolving into the best place to create, display, and sell our work. Additionally, our Soiree events allow us to entertain at our secluded desert location.
We are excited to show you our latest works, which capture the “ethos” of the desert. Sandra explores the intersection of movement and light, while Larry captures the mystery of the desert with light and color emanating from his sculpture.
“Why Join the Artistic Journey of Obliq Art and Larry Ortega?”
For 15 years, Obliq Art has provided gallery spaces, curated sculpture shows, and launched the Sunnyslope Open Studio Tours and Sunnyslope Plein Air Fest. The private event, Soiree #9, will be the last Soiree event.
After 44 years in the desert, we are embarking on new adventures and exploring new horizons. I invite you to subscribe if you want to connect with [professional creatives] and people like us. We are working on additional events for this year and part of 2025.
We respect your privacy and will never sell your information. We don’t request donations or Patreon contributions. Instead, we sustain our work through the sale of art. Your support means the world to us. Thank you.
“Illuminate”
The “Illuminate” exhibit showcased some of my latest pieces. The Agave surrounds our property, surviving the appetite of marauding javelinas. The plant protects itself with a needle-like spine. I see the sensuality and the DNA of the desert embedded in this piece of art.
Short video featuring work for the “Illuminate” show this past August. Kevin Caron and Ceri Jones were the featured artists. This show was at the West Valley Arts Council. https://www.instagram.com/artshqgallery/?hl=en
Lights Out at Arts HQ Galleryhttps://www.phoenixnewtimes.com/arts/arts-hq-gallery-in-surprise-illuminates-works-of-local-talent-14317539?fbclid=IwAR2ryMoy3tw2Ga6uSaBVaVFEv10At9DFwCIvj9w1lN5QcoRg5REnfKOx8oU