THE OFFICIAL HOME OF THE FIFA WORLD CUP 26 HOUSTON™
Betirri's Story
Betirri's creative journey began with a deep passion for sports and a personal challenge—his struggle with asthma, which prevented him from becoming a professional soccer player.
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After moving to Houston with his family as a high school student and then double majoring in architecture and painting at the University of Houston, he discovered a way to combine his artistic talent and athletic passion into one endeavor.
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Betirri channeled his passion for sports into his art, creating a celebrated series of paintings depicting bodiless sports figures in motion. These paintings capture the essence and dynamism of athletes without focusing on individual identity.
This unique artistic perspective not only highlights the universal nature of sports but also aligns with Betirri's view of art as a medium for social commentary and communal identity. Betirri’s approach in art was influenced by his architectural education, which led him to practice art with a vision and a concept in mind.
His work, recognized and exhibited internationally, ranges from figurative to conceptual, always striving to evoke the spirit of his subjects. Betirri's role as the official artist of the Houston Lamborghini Festival since 2014 and his collaborations with major brands like Reebok Brazil and Major League Soccer underscore his ability to bridge diverse worlds—combining the vibrancy of sports with the introspective nature of fine art.
In 2020, near the end of the pandemic, Betirri was able to integrate his architectural professionalism with the design and building of his gallery and household for him and his wife.
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Describe your art style.
My work explores the universal language of football, capturing its energy and spirit through abstracted, bodiless figures that convey movement and emotion. Rooted in a lifelong passion for the sport, I aim to celebrate the profound sense of connection it fosters across different cultures and communities. Each piece embodies the rhythm and momentum of the game, portraying athletes in dynamic, yet anonymous forms to emphasize the shared human experience in sports, rather than individual identity.
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What does Houston mean to you?
For me, Houston is more than just a home; it’s a canvas of opportunity and a wellspring of inspiration. As a city rich in diversity and culture, Houston has shaped my artistic journey, providing a unique backdrop where my passion for football and art converges. Having migrated from Mexico, I found in Houston a place that embraces global influences, fueling my mission to highlight football’s unifying power through my work. With the city set to host seven games of the 2026 World Cup, Houston symbolizes both a personal and professional milestone—an opportunity to share my vision on a global stage while celebrating the vibrant, multicultural spirit that defines my adopted home.