The Rolling Canvas
Luis Ortega of Amigos Car Club

Article: C.A

Photos: D. Arredondo

 

Luis Ortega and his unique 1968 Impala share one special thing in common. Both man and automobile are festooned with prison style murals that tell the story of a prior life of drugs, money and incarceration. Ortega, who now lives a clean life as a family man, grew up in the mean streets of Juarez, Mexico.

He later relocated to Fresno, California where he got into trouble with the law and ended up in prison. Soon after his release, Ortega decided to start off on a clean new slate and moved back to El Paso, TX and his home town Juarez, Mexico.

He purchased his classic 68 Chevy Impala and then decided to use its large body as a canvas. The car is covered in highly detailed murals created by artist Esteban Solis of Juarez, Mexico. The murals include a fantastic portrait of both Luis Ortega and his wife Maribel, in which takes up the cars entire trunk.

Featured on the cars right hand door, body and fender are murals of a prison tower, chains, and the sinister image of a man running as he’s being shot in the heart. The mural on cars opposite side reflects the deep pride Ortega has for his indigenous roots. Images include Eagle Knight Aztec warriors, princesses, pyramids, and feathered serpents.

Ortega’s ride is definitely an eye catcher and we proudly include it into our art and lowrider gallery.

 

 

 

Luis Ortega of Amigos Car Club

Luis Ortega of Amigos Car Club

Luis Ortega of Amigos Car Club