Pete Ortega
There are very few people who are fortunate to do the type of job they love most and make a living from it. The Ortega’s are some of these individuals that meet that criteria. There are many facets that are most enchanting in their line of work, which is now in the third generation. Two of the greatest advantages that I perceive in doing this special gift, are that Pete Ortega is showing society a story about his culture and religious beliefs.
By now you are asking what is this profession that is so rewarding, and who is this Peter Ortega? To begin with, Peter Ortega was born June 4, 1958 to Ben and Isabel Ortega of Tesuque, New Mexico. His ancestors from Spanish Descendants, which has to do with the history of his work. He has nine siblings who also carry on their father’s tradition. It was his father who was and is influential in Pete’s profession as a moral supporter and teacher. When you ask Peter how he started with his profession, he would humbly state his father, Ben Ortega, Sr. is the inspiration, moral supporter and teacher in his life and work. Peter’s work is much like his father’s work in that their carvings are folk art. The way that Peter’s work is different from his father, is that Peter also does contemporary art. It should be noted that both artists are different because each have a unique style of their own.
When you meet Ben Ortega, Sr. you realize that he is a humble, gentle and compassionate man with much knowledge, wisdom and talent. When you ask him how he started his profession, he will modestly state that thirty years ago a sponsor from the Santé Fe Opera came to his home to ask him to donate something to the Opera. At that time, Mr. Ortega thought he was unable to give “much.” He stated to the sponsor, “I do not have something of value to give you, but have made these small St. Frances bultos, you may have them.” Mr. Ortega did not think anyone would purchase his crafted bultos, but he soon found out it was not so. The next day, he states, that someone came to his house in Tesuque, New Mexico, and told him they were looking for Ben Ortega, the artist. He meekly replied “I am Ben Ortega, Sr., but not an artist.” It was from that point the Ben Ortega Sr.’s family folk art history begins.
To comprehend Pete Ortega, the reader must understand his father and how the wood carvings began. By understanding and relating to the roots of the Ben Ortega, Sr.’s profession, it is uncomplicated to understand Pete’s devotion and love for his profession. Pete states, “I enjoy creating each piece of art because every piece is different, challenging and rewarding.” Most of all, Peter is content because he knows his art brings happiness to people.
