I’m Diana Tohar from Calgary, Alberta, Canada, the artist behind Oridea Creates.

My journey into art began after my 17-month-old son was diagnosed with a rare form of cancer. Amidst the weight of his diagnosis, heart-wrenching treatments, and subsequent relapse, I was overcome with tremendous grief and pain. I needed an outlet to sustain my mental and emotional health.

I discovered the medium of paper art during one of the hardest times in my life, and what started as simply cutting and gluing paper became something much deeper—it became a way to process my grief. Each piece I create is layered not just with paper, but with emotion, healing, and resilience. Paper art gives me a quiet, meditative space to express what is difficult to put into words, and over time, it has become a powerful part of my personal journey.

Now, I share that journey through every creation, bringing a unique perspective that resonates with people looking for something heartfelt and handmade.

As a local artist, I take pride in sharing my work within the Calgary community, offering art that is not only visually striking but also rich in meaning. Whether through my handmade art pieces, workshops, or collaborations, I love connecting with people who appreciate the depth and detail behind each creation. My work is a true reflection of my ongoing journey, and I’m grateful for the opportunity to bring a touch of creativity and storytelling to my local community.

Thank you for holding space for my work.