YSU Department of Art presents 'Portraits' by Frank Oriti

Youngstown State University’s Department of Art welcomes Cleveland native Frank Oriti to present his exhibit titled "Portraits" in the Judith Rae Solomon Gallery, located in YSU’s Bliss Hall, Monday, March 10, through Friday, April 4.

Oriti’s artistic journey began in 2006 when he earned a B.F.A. in Two-Dimensional Studies from Bowling Green State University. After returning to Cleveland and working in steel mills, he then transitioned to Ohio University, where he started creating images inspired by his experiences in the blue-collar workforce. Oriti then graduated with an M.F.A. in Painting in 2011.

“'Portraits' explores the complex culture of blue-collar individuals who returned to the hometowns and neighborhoods they once sought to escape,” Oriti said. “Through each portrait, I delve into the tension between suburban landscapes and their inhabitants, probing questions like, ‘What has my life become?’ and ‘How will others see me now?’”

Oriti has exhibited solo shows in Cleveland, New York and Los Angeles, with his work also featured in numerous group shows, including the BP Portrait Award in London’s National Portrait Gallery, and MOCA Jacksonville’s show Get Real. His work continues to be exhibited and acquired by collections, both public and private, all over the world.

Entry to this exhibit is free and open to the public. Parking is available in the Wick Avenue Deck (M30) for a $5 fee payable in cash only. The Judith Rae Solomon Gallery is open 8 a.m. - 5 p.m., Monday through Friday.

For more information, contact Katie Merrill, Cliffe College Coordinator of Community Engagement and Events, at 330.941.2307 or kamerrill@ysu.edu.