1. Tortilla Art with Joe Bravo

2. Joe Baca was born in San Jose, California
Joe Baca was born in San Jose, California. His father was from the state of Michoacán, Mexico and his mother’s family was from Mexicali, Baja California. Growing up in the border town of Calexico, California, he began his art career by making mud figures, drawing, constructing wood swords, slingshots and other projects.
The lack of having any store bought toys helped Bravo to develop his creativity and technical ability because he had to use his imagination to make his own toys. His family moved to Los Angeles County in the early 1960’s. Bravo graduated from Cal State Northridge with a BA degree in graphic design. He is now focused on producing and exhibiting his art full time.

3. “I use the tortilla as a canvas because it is an integral part of the Hispanic Culture and my heritage. For the subject matter of my tortilla paintings, I use imagery that is representative of Latinos, conveying their hopes, art, beliefs and history. As the tortilla has given us life, I give it new life by using it as an art medium.”

4. I recently did a series of paintings on flour tortillas where I used imagery and icons in Latino culture, from “La Virgin de Guadalupe” to “Dia de Los Muertos” as themes. This was a concept series that allowed me to depict the Hispanic consciousness on a food staple that is thousands
of years old.

8. Lightly toast tortillas on both sides.

9. Use a template or freehand draw a design with a permanent marker.

10. Paint with acrylics.

17. After paint is dry, seal with a gloss medium.

18. Lesson idea and student work courtesy of Pam Stodghill Day Presentation is available at