Santos Las Barbosa was born and raised in McAllen, Texas, moving to Tucson, Arizona in the mid-1960s. He is primarily a self-taught artist with influences from the genre of Frederic Remington and Charles Russell. Santos has spent his years researching the Southwest at the turn of the twentieth century. Although he continues to pursue new ideas for his art, desolate cowboys, Native Americans and historical themes all play a part in the era he seeks to keep alive. “I try to imagine how it used to be, and picture how people would gather and how things appeared to them.”
       His impressionistic style and use of vivid color capture the drama of this period. Most recently, visits to historical towns in Arizona, New Mexico, and Texas have created a desire within him to keep history alive through accurate depictions of life “back then.” Currently, he is focusing on the Rio Grande Valley. Santos enjoys traveling, talking to people, and reading as part of his search for new ideas.
        He has received many awards over the years and his work is included in collections worldwide. His art has been highlighted in magazines such as Artists of Arizona, Tucson Lifestyle, and Art Life. Santos is a member and a featured artist at the prestigious Mountain Oyster Club in Tucson. He continues to participate in various art shows, including the Empire Ranch Western Art Show in Sonoita, Arizona and the George Phippen Memorial Art Show in Prescott, Arizona. Recently retired, Santos looks forward to devoting himself to what he loves to do best.

STUDIO
3041 South Oberon Rd.
Tucson, Arizona 85713

AWARDS & RECOGNITION
1992- Bronze Award (2nd Place), George Phippen Memorial Art Show, Arizona
1988- Silver award (2nd Place), George Phippen Memorial Art Show, Arizona
1976- Governor’s Award, Pima County Fair, Arizona