Joe Ortega is the son of famed Santa Fe “Santos” wood carver Ben Ortega. Ortega is also the brother in law of folk artist David Alvarez, who is married to Joe’s sister Louise.  Folk carving comes naturaly to Joe, which is obvious when examing his work.  With  an excellent natural instinct for carving and years of practice and work Joe’s art is without a question the work of a master.   Our elven piece hand carved Joe Ortega nativity is a excellent example of what makes him a fabulous folk artist.