Chris Pero
Portland, OR
Portland artist and MS advocate, inspiring creativity and ensuring everyone has the opportunity to embrace art and live well.
Message
I was born and raised in Northwestern Ohio, where I developed a passion for art and design. I studied Graphic Design at La Roche College and later earned a BFA in non-silver photography from the University of New Mexico. Since moving to Portland, OR, in 1996, I’ve built a diverse career in the art world, including custom picture framing, gallery work, and founding my consultancy, Perodesign. After being diagnosed with Multiple Sclerosis in 2007, I’ve remained active as an MS Lifelines Ambassador, advocating for living well with MS. Recently, I participated in a residency focused on expressive painting, which further fueled my artistic journey. I’m passionate about teaching and believe everyone has a creative spark. Outside of art, I enjoy swimming, kayaking, traveling, and gardening, all while cherishing time with family and friends.
Statement
Hi, my name is Chris Pero, living in Portland, Oregon. I follow intuition as I build layered compositions, exploring texture, rhythm, and energy through elements gathered from the natural world.
I was diagnosed with multiple sclerosis in 2007, and art has become both refuge from MS and my resistance to MS. Creating art allows me to stay on the sunny side of life. Yes, I get tired—but don’t we all? In the studio, fatigue gives way to movement, focus, and joy.
Color is my language. I use my camera to collect moments, textures, and color relationships from everyday life. When I return to the studio, I turn up the music and let what I’ve seen and heard guide me. My process is physical, immersive, and deeply affirming—an ongoing act of presence, resilience, and love.