I create work to free myself of past trauma and to relate with others. My work has more social value than monetary worth.
You decide who will appear in Artforum Magazine, take home $25,000, and display their work at The Art of Elysium's Salon!
My preferred artistic practice centers on large-scale drawings in pastel, charcoal, and ink. I am particularly drawn to working at a scale that allows the viewer to become fully immersed in the piece. Through my use of pastels, I explore the boundaries of color by layering and manipulating the medium in unconventional ways, including the integration of wet techniques. At the same time, I challenge and expand my academic understanding of the subjects I depict, striving for depth and technique.
Where do you find inspiration?My work is shaped by lived experience, especially trauma and resilience. After a difficult childhood, I found healing through combat sports, confronting fear and reclaiming strength. I carry this into my art to connect with others, reminding them they are not alone. I believe pain can be transformed into power, and my work is driven by the hope that it offers solace and understanding to those who need it.
What would you do with $25,000?With the $25,000, I would secure a studio space to develop a new body of work. A portion would go toward essential expenses, allowing me to focus fully on creating. I would also donate part of the funds to a local nonprofit art organization to help establish a scholarship, providing underprivileged children access to free art classes.
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