Artforms - Tori Cole, painter - Brief Article

Artist: Tori Cole

Trade: Painter

Looking at the work of painter Tori Cole, one might think that she grew up in Africa taking part in ancestral ceremonial traditions--instead of Seattle. Through what she describes as a "modern ancestral flair," Cole gives her paintings warm colors, coarse textures and her spirit--which is rich like the sisters in her painting "Dancing Women" (pictured left). "I am a daughter, sister, wife and mother of two," says Cole, 33, who runs her own art studio, Tori Designs: A Soul Sista's Work. "As Black women we have so much movement, so much color. Women [inspire] the subjects, movements, shapes, feelings and spirits conveyed through my art." * Cole says that "talking with sisterfriends" prompted her latest project. By also designing gift cards, journals and bookmarks ($5 to $30) in addition to her paintings ($1,200 to $1,700), she hopes more people will be able to share her celebration of womanhood. "Whatever we do, Black women always dance through life." To purchase Cole's work, call (617) 364-1534.

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