“Portraits,” the work of Cleveland native Frank Oriti, is on display at Youngstown State University’s Judith Rae Solomon Gallery.

Oriti’s artistic journey began in 2006 when he earned a bachelor of fine arts degree 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 a master’s degree in painting in 2011.

According to the artist, “‘Portraits’ explores the complex culture of blue-collar individuals who returned to the hometowns and neighborhoods they once sought to escape. 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 had solo shows in Cleveland, New York and Los Angeles, and his work also has been featured in numerous group shows, including receiving the BP Portrait Award in London’s National Portrait Gallery, and MOCA Jacksonville’s show “Get Real.”

The work of Oriti, a winner of the Cleveland Arts Prize Emerging Artist Award, can be found in private and public collections worldwide.

“Portraits” will be on display through April 4 at the gallery, which is located in Bliss Hall.

Gallery hours are 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday.