Ariel Oki is a contemporary artist whose vibrant, layered works reflect her deep connection to her Japanese American heritage, her Los Angeles upbringing, and the serene landscapes of Pennsylvania. Born and raised in Santa Monica, California, Oki discovered her passion for art as a teen, eventually earning a Bachelor of Fine Arts from Tufts University and the School of the Museum of Fine Arts in Boston.

After returning to Los Angeles, Oki launched an art enrichment company, developing and leading programs at private schools across the city while also serving as a resident artist at the Hive Gallery in Downtown LA. Her work has been exhibited in numerous creative spaces throughout the region, showcasing her ability to fuse layered patterns, vibrant colors, and organic forms into spontaneous, unplanned compositions that invite connection and discovery.

In 2022, Oki relocated to State College, Pennsylvania, after marrying her husband, Paul. From her studio, she continues to create mixed-media pieces that blend her Japanese roots and LA-inspired aesthetics with the natural beauty of her new surroundings. She has exhibited with the Bellefonte Museum and the Art Alliance and collaborates with the State College School District to bring art enrichment programs to elementary students. Ariel also continues her long-standing role as the art teacher and art enrichment director for St. Sebastian School in Los Angeles, demonstrating her commitment to nurturing creativity and inspiring students across distances.

Through her work, Oki explores themes of identity, connection, and reverence for the landscapes she inhabits, weaving her personal experiences into every piece she creates.