About

My name is Toria Maldonado and I’m an illustrator, painter, and screen printer from so called Long Beach, California on Tongva land. Tough & Tender is the title I use to describe my design work. I create work inspired by movements rooted in queerness, liberation, and abolition; often in response to current socio-economic issues. Making work that deals with both personal and communal struggles, I also use many creative techniques such as collage, upcycling material, and fabrication to create in more accessible, sustainable ways.

In 2019, I received my Bachelor’s Degree in Studio Art from California State University, of Long Beach. My work has been exhibited at Long Beach Museum of Art, South Gate Museum, and Plaza de la Raza. I have worked with organizations like Social and Public Art Resource Center, Nalgona Positivity Pride, Chicxs Rockerxs SELA, and Mi Centro, located at the LA LGBT Center. Currently, I am collaborating with other local artists to create accessible art, organize mutual aid fundraisers, and support creative community workshops.