FAIRHOPE, Ala. — Artist Luis Perez will be one of more than 100 artists included in the Grand Festival of Art Oct. 17 and 18, from 10 a.m. until 5 p.m. in downtown Fairhope.

Perez currently makes his home in Breaux Bridge, La., the heart of Cajun Country. He is a unique combination of businessman, sportsman, chef, family man and artist.

Perez creates unique art using salvaged wood and metal from Hurricane Katrina debris, as well as Louisiana rustic woods for one-of-a-kind creations and frames. He is a true multi-media artisan.

Perez is of Spanish, Mexican and Tarahumara Indian descent. Born and raised in Leon, Mexico, he is proud of his heritage and it often shows up in his art.

“I dreamed of becoming an artist as a very young child. However, coming from a large family, I had to go to work at a young age. My dream of a fine arts degree in college never came true. However, the lack of a formal education did not hinder my desire to do my art. I live a simple life, but my dream for my art is far from simple. Hard work, followed by success, has been the pattern of my life. I feel I am such a lucky man to have found my heaven on earth.”