Tori Ohanna: Bold Color, Creative Vision, and Art

Photo by @luismiguelberrios

A Lifelong Passion for Painting

For Tori Ohanna, creativity has always been part of life. Inspired early on by her uncle, a talented artist whose work left a lasting impression, Tori spent years experimenting with painting and developing her own artistic voice.

Although she has been painting for many years, her decision to focus more seriously on art as a career is relatively recent. That transition marks an exciting new chapter, one where years of practice, experimentation, and inspiration are now taking shape as a growing professional journey.

For Tori, art is less about rigid rules and more about exploration. Each piece reflects not only her evolving style but also her willingness to embrace uncertainty and creative discovery along the way.

Vibrant Expression and an Experimental Process

Tori’s artwork is immediately recognizable for its bold color, vibrant energy, and expressive composition. Drawing inspiration from both emerging and established pop artists, she embraces the idea that artists contribute to culture in different ways throughout their careers.

Her creative process is largely experimental. She works with a range of materials, particularly oil paints and acrylics, allowing each medium to guide the direction of a piece.

When beginning a painting, she usually starts with a loose idea. Perhaps the subject matter or a general color palette, but beyond that, she intentionally leaves space for spontaneity. Some works evolve quickly, while others require time and reflection.

There are moments when a painting reaches a pause, and Tori steps away for a day or two until a new idea emerges. That willingness to trust the process often leads to the unexpected textures, colors, and compositions that define her work.

Bridging Art and Business Through Curation

While Tori primarily identifies as an artist, her two decades of experience in the art world also led her to explore the business side of creativity.

Through her venture, Curation Department, she collaborates with hospitality groups, commercial venues, and businesses looking to integrate art into their spaces. Rather than focusing solely on the title of “curator,” Tori sees her role as something more collaborative.

Curation, in her view, is about creating meaningful experiences through art, selecting pieces that complement a space, elevate its atmosphere, and connect viewers to creativity in a natural way.

When working with clients, the process begins with understanding their vision. What mood are they trying to create? What story should the space tell?

From there, Tori develops thoughtful presentations and lookbooks that guide clients through potential artistic directions. The goal is to serve as a bridge between concept and execution, helping businesses bring creative environments to life.

A Unique Balance: Artist and Firefighter

One of the most remarkable aspects of Tori’s life is the balance she maintains between two very different worlds.

In addition to her artistic career, she works as a firefighter which is an intense and demanding profession that requires long shifts and a strong sense of service. Her schedule often includes either a 10-hour day shift or a 14-hour night shift at the fire station.

After returning home, the creative work begins again.

Tori checks emails, follows up with potential leads, communicates with venues and businesses, and manages the day-to-day aspects of her art ventures. Whenever possible, she heads into the studio to paint, though inspiration tends to flow most naturally during the daytime hours.

It’s a life that requires dedication and adaptability, but the contrast between these roles also fuels her creativity.

Artists Who Inspire Her

Tori finds inspiration in artists who have challenged traditional ideas about art and culture.

She admires the conceptual boldness of Damien Hirst, the graphic pop-art style of Roy Lichtenstein, and the imaginative visual storytelling of Peter Blake.

Each of these artists represents a different approach to creativity whether through conceptual experimentation, pop culture influence, or playful design. Their work continues to inspire Tori as she explores her own evolving artistic voice.

Where to Find Her Work

Those interested in following Tori’s artistic journey can explore her work online.

Her artwork can be found at www.toritheartist.com, while her most recent pieces and studio updates are frequently shared on Instagram at @toriartofficial.

Her creative consulting and art partnership business can be explored at www.curationdepartment.com, where she collaborates with commercial clients to integrate art into thoughtfully designed spaces.

An Artist at the Beginning of an Exciting Chapter

For Tori Ohanna, the future is full of possibility. With years of experience behind her and a renewed focus on art as a career, she is stepping confidently into a new phase of creative growth. Through vibrant paintings, thoughtful collaborations, and a deep appreciation for artistic experimentation, she continues to build a path that reflects both passion and purpose. And as her work evolves, one thing remains constant: a fearless commitment to creativity.