Today we’d like to introduce you to Brianna Ortiz.
Brianna, before we jump into specific questions about your art, why don’t you give us some details about you and your story.
My story starts at the age of six when I became involved in performing arts and sports. Between me and my oldest sibling growing up, I was a tomboy who would dress up, sing and dance in front of anyone and I had the most perfect spiral when I’d play football with my dad and the boys from the neighborhood. Little did I know, that what I loved to do as a little girl would eventually be my passions as a woman. For 15 years, I studied music, dance and drawing in the southside of Austin, TX where I was raised. After graduating from Crockett High School in 2011, I wanted to continue my education but, my heart was directing me down a different path. Eventually, I stopped doing what I loved because I became that one out of four statistics that would experience domestic violence. Easier said than done, I survived six years of abuse.
After finding the strength to leave, I immediately picked up a paintbrush the next day determined to learn a new medium. At that time, I wasn’t focused on learning about the different types of brushes or how to properly mix paint color, all I wanted to do was express myself a wake up that fearless girl again. After almost seven years of no creativity, I successfully taught myself how to paint in just two months. Feeling motivated, I decided to collaborate with my friend Kim on my first photoshoot for exposure, practice and to build my self-esteem. What started off as 1 photographer soon turned into 3 then 4. Unexpectedly, I found myself taking an interest in modeling and slowly my confidence bloomed organically. In 2015, I joined both the “Raw Artists” and “Pancakes and Booze” organizations that help provide a platform for artists to network, display and sell their artwork. During my beginning years as an emerging artist, I was working daily overtime as a mail carrier for USPS to supplement my artistic lifestyle and home. In 2018, I decided to leave my home town to start a new life in Dallas, TX.
Now, after one year of living in DFW, I am a paid model, I’ve showcased in 10+ art events, walked in runway shows, gotten published in multiple magazines, enrolled in modeling school, joined the “Camp Fire First” organization as an artist who I personally donate artwork to-to raise money for education, and I have sold more than 50 paintings collectively in and outside of Texas. After almost 4 1/2 years of mail delivery service, I decided to hang up my postal uniform to focus on my dreams and well-being. As I pursue my art and modeling career full-time as well as my new hair and skincare business, my goal is to continue to create, inspire and be a positive influence on people of all ages, races and origin especially for the men and women who are victims and survivors of domestic violence.
Tell us more about your art.
I recently decided to name my business “Fearless Palette” because growing up, I wasn’t shy and now that I am a model you have to be confident and fearless!
Any shoutouts? Who else deserves credit in this story – who has played a meaningful role?
My friend Kim was the first photographer I have worked with who originally started my portfolio.
My parents have been supportive of my performing art/visual art hobbies and interests.
My older sister helps motivate me and supports me as well and attends my art and modeling events.
Contact Info:
- Email: Briannaortiz.dfw@gmail.com
- Instagram: ___Breeofficial
- Facebook: www.facebook.com/fearlesspalette
- Other: www.rawartists.org/briannaortiz
Image Credit:
Benji_portraits
Jpricephoto
Jfriasphoto
Xstyles1708
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