Funk Zone Artist Pedro De La Cruz: A Look Inside his Private Studio

Funk Zone Artist Pedro De La Cruz: A Look Inside his Private Studio

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.

A Look into His Private Funk Zone Studio

Jaunt Journal's tour of Pedro's studio was nothing short of inspirational and fascinating. Both his larger and smaller works are equally impressive. His use of vibrant colors and symbols drawn from his Mexican heritage evokes a sense of home and belonging, resonating deeply with native Californians.

Influcences

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.

Pedro was featured in our Santa Barbara guidebook, where he shares the story behind his art, his life in the Funk Zone, and his favorite local recommendations throughout the city.

Excerpt from Jaunt Journals:

What's your ideal Sunday in Santa Barbara?

I sleep in. At noon I take my family out to lunch at Brophy Bros. by the Santa Barbara Harbor. This spot has the best views of SB, both of the beach and the mountains. You can spy the crabs playing on the rocks. Later on, we take a walk on Arroyo Burro Beach with our dog and catch a gorgeous sunset. 

-Pedro De La Cruz

Pedro De La Cruz graces the pages of Jaunt Journals with his beautiful illustrations. Want to live Santa Barbara through the eyes of artist Pedro De La Cruz? Pick up your copy today.

Pedro's Website and Instagram

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