I come from humble roots. Art helps me understand life and express what words can’t—turning feelings into something visible.
You decide who will appear in Artforum Magazine, take home $25,000, and display their work at The Art of Elysium's Salon!
I’m drawn to modern, avant-garde art that’s free, expressive, y full of vibrant color. I love working across styles and materials, mixing media to create something layered y alive. My approach is intuitive rather than rigid—freestyle and emotion-led. Art has always been a way for me to explore feeling, connection, y perspective; i.e., as demonstrated in my (1/1) painting "El FOREST NEGRO" - el bosque negro (The Black Forest) 1987. Burleigh (b. 1959), 90033 Los Angeles, Mexalifornia.
Where do you find inspiration?I’m drawn to modern, avant-garde art—freestyle, vibrant, and multimedia. I create intuitively, layering color and material to express emotion. My inspiration comes from daily life: my surroundings, the movement of the city, and my work driving across Los Angeles. Supporting foster children and students with disabilities deeply shapes what I see and feel, and those real, human moments often guide what I create.
What would you do with $25,000?I would use the $25,000 to pay off pressing debts, especially mounting veterinary bills after my dogs recently became blind and injured within months. As a disabled, retired veteran on a fixed income, I’m doing my best to stay afloat, but it’s been overwhelming. This support would bring stability, relieve financial strain, and allow me to focus on healing, caregiving, and continuing to create without constant worry.
Vote for Big Dave 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.
Register now for your opportunity to appear in Artforum Magazine, take home $25,000, and display your artwork at The Art of Elysium's Salon.
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.
