Kirt Cruz

Age: 35

Born: San Ignacio Town, Cayo District, Belize
Raised: San Ignacio Town
Talents: Painting

Kirt Cruz Diamond in the Rough-2

“Art saved my Life”

About Kirt: Kirt Jason Cruz is a 35 year old Belizean artist originally from San Ignacio Town located in the Cayo District of Western Belize. Currently residing in San Pedro Town, Ambergris Caye Kirt is My Beautiful Belize’s newest Diamond in the Rough. Born into a family of 8, ( 5 siblings plus his mother and father), Kirt picked up painting at the age of 10 as he was influenced by his father, renowned Belizean artist (painter) Pedro Cruz.


Painting has always been a part of Kirt’s life, but it was in 2006 that the artist really drew closer to his skill as art would become his therapeutic source after being involved in an altercation that would leave him partially paralyzed. Kirt struggled to keep art in his life after his right hand (which he used to paint) was affected by the incident. It would take months before he would make the transition from a right- hand painter to successfully teaching himself to use his left hand. While Kirt has limited mobility as his accident has also left him in a wheel chair, he hasn’t let these obstacles stop him from doing what he loves.

 

The artist proudly proclaims that art has saved his life. Kirt does “street side art” in San Pedro Town, and his work has become quite the commodity. Locals and many tourists that visit the island and wish to take back home pieces of paradise often choose pieces by Kirt. Next time you’re in San Pedro Town, look out for Kirt and his amazing paintings.

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About the Author: Tamara Sniffin

I’m a sucker for a fuzzy face, a feathered face, a face with fins or even one with scales! I am in love with the creatures and the flora that are synonymous with Belize and every opportunity I have to learn more about them and explore their wild habitats I am there! I’m the happiest when I’m snorkeling the reef and swimming with turtles, however my passion is not just limited to critters! Laced throughout this compact jungle gem of a country live the Kriol, Maya, Garifuna, Mestizo and Spanish people, and experiencing each culture, especially their celebrations is one of my favorite pastimes.

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