I am a Finnish–Peruvian visual artist with a background in science. I moved to Turku in 2011 and later earned a PhD in Biotechnology from University of Turku. In 2020, due to severe health challenges caused by lupus, I had to stop working and reassess my career path. As a result, I found entrepreneurship to be a suitable path where I can combine visual art, science, and storytelling.
Through The Tumi Project, an Instagram account I opened in 2019, I sell original and customized paintings accompanied by stories that deepen the meaning behind the artwork.
I work with acrylics, oils, oil pastels, and markers. I enjoy mixed media and often incorporate recycled materials into my pieces. Vibrant colors are one of the main characteristics of my paintings.
Currently, I am developing a project that aims to make scientific and clinical information more accessible to diverse audiences, including people living with lupus. I use my lived experience with lupus, scientific background, and art—including storytelling, drawings, and paintings—as communication tools. Reference: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nataliatong-ochoa/
My goal as an artist is to use art and storytelling to connect people from different backgrounds through shared emotions.
UPCOMING PROJECT
2026 – Interactive Art Installation as part of “Outsider Art Festival”
Oodi Library, Helsinki ( August 19–24)
I will create the installation The Sauna of Hope, made from cardboard and acrylic paint. The campaign invites the audience to write down their hopes of a better country and interact with the elements of the sauna. The installation is a paid work.
Reference: Instagram reel
https://www.instagram.com/reel/DXJ3PTdjJMb/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link&igsh=MzRlODBiNWFlZA==
PAST PROJECTS
2026 – Group Exhibition: “Boundaries”
Oranssi ry, Helsinki ( March 26–29)
Organized by Kaitakollektiivi ry. My proposal: “Shhh” (Acrylic & Mixed Media, 90 × 65 cm, 2026).
Reference: Instagram Post
https://www.instagram.com/p/DWwQ2nEgnih/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link&igsh=MzRlODBiNWFlZA==
2026 – Group Exhibition as part of “Say it Loud” event
Turku City Library, Turku ( February 7–28)
Organized by Say it Loud in Finland Ry. My proposal: “My Life in Emotions” included six paintings. During the exhibition one painting was sold.
Reference: Instagram Post
https://www.instagram.com/p/DVqx8z8AvIE/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link&igsh=MzRlODBiNWFlZA==
2025 – Group Exhibition: “Ääniä monikulttuurisesta yhteisöstä”
Iso Galleria, Turun Taidehalli, Tutku (December 12–19)
Organized by Sateenkaari Koto ry and the Turku Artists’ Association. I presented ten acrylic paintings on the theme “Emotions” and was able to sell one painting.
Reference: Instagram post
https://www.instagram.com/p/DRP8J3IAnuJ/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link&igsh=MzRlODBiNWFlZA==
2025 – Coloring Wall for Sateenkaari Koto ry
Yhteisöpiste Mustikka, Turku (September 8–11, 2025)
The Community Wall (210 × 170 cm) was created for the 20th anniversary of Mustikka. The doodle featured faces of people from diverse backgrounds, and Finnish elements. Over four days, participants of all ages colored it with oil pastels.
Reference: Instagram Post
https://www.instagram.com/p/DO87xpbggOQ/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link&igsh=MTZmZGh2NXc5N3p2aA==
LATEST SOLD PAINTING
“The Last Dance”
Acrylics on canvas, 90 × 90 cm, 2025
Sold during my exhibition at Turku City Library on February 2026
Reference: Instagram Post
https://www.instagram.com/p/DTvds5Xgm7E/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link&igsh=MzRlODBiNWFlZA==