My art brings joy, freedom, and contemplation—it lets me be unapologetically me: raw, real, dreamy, and playful. It keeps me sane.
You decide who will appear in Artforum Magazine, take home $25,000, and display their work at The Art of Elysium's Salon!
I stumbled upon loving assemblage through experimentation, and as I made the pieces bigger and bigger, I loved it more—it became my addiction. I love storytelling with others, and this became a new way to express myself through fun and challenging topics.
Where do you find inspiration?Inspiration comes first from my Irish immigrant parents. As a first-generation artist, I strive to push beyond what’s been done before. It also comes from my insatiable curiosity and my nature—both joyful and deeply aware of the world’s inequities. I channel these perspectives into my work, creating playful vignettes that invite others to reflect on the world, nature, and our place within it.
What would you do with $25,000?I would use part of the $25,000 to transport my artwork to LA, hiring help to safely load, move, and install the pieces. I’d invest in materials for larger structures and installations, along with lighting, a camera, and large canvases—essentials for growth. I’d also get a year membership to SFMOMA and the de Young, and fly my mom out to experience my art in LA with me.
Vote for Bernadette Bohan to become The People's Artist while supporting a great cause! Cast your free daily vote or make an even bigger impact when you vote by donation, supporting The Art of Elysium in their mission to use art as a catalyst to help people triumph over difficult life challenges.
Colossal is a nationally registered professional fundraiser that inspires people to advocate for themselves and those in need. Through online competitions like The People's Artist, Colossal offers participants the opportunity to make their mark while also making a big impact.
