I create art to honor ancestral knowledge, connect with nature, and turn raw materials into meaningful functional pieces.
You decide who will appear in Artforum Magazine, take home $25,000, and display their work at The Art of Elysium's Salon!
I create functional art rooted in tradition—hand-knapped stone blades, ceremonial tools, and resin-infused pieces that bridge ancient techniques with modern expression. Each piece carries purpose, whether it’s a tool, a story, or a connection to something deeper. I’m especially drawn to working with natural materials like obsidian, wood, and stone, honoring their origin while transforming them into something meaningful and alive.
Where do you find inspiration?My inspiration comes from my ancestors, the land, and the materials themselves. Stone, wood, and earth all carry history, and when I work with them, I’m continuing a story that started long before me. I’m also inspired by patterns in nature, sacred geometry, and the balance between old ways and new possibilities. Every piece begins with listening—to the material, to the process, and to something bigger than myself.
What would you do with $25,000?I would invest in expanding my craft and sharing it with others. This includes upgrading tools and materials, creating a dedicated workspace, and traveling to showcase and teach traditional techniques like flint knapping. I want to preserve and pass on these ancestral skills while pushing my art forward. A portion would also go toward building a stronger platform to reach more people and keep this tradition alive for future generations.
Vote for Brandon West 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.