Carissa Smith

Art is my happy place. It helps me decompress and relieve stress. It’s my therapy, where I turn emotions into something meaningful.

Currently 4th

in their Group
VOTE

You decide who will appear in Artforum Magazine, take home $25,000, and display their work at The Art of Elysium's Salon!

Voting for the Top 20 ends Thursday the 14th of May at 7PM PDT

What is The People's Artist?

Learn More
Connect
What is your favorite type of art to create?

I enjoy charcoal for its deep, rich hues—and the fact that it makes me look like a dramatic genius even when I have no idea what I’m doing. It offers a perfect balance of control and chaos, kind of like me on a Monday morning. Those bold, inky blacks and smudgy textures make everything feel intense and artistic. Charcoal responds instantly to pressure, which is great for expression.

Where do you find inspiration?

I find inspiration in the thrill of instant gratification—the rush of watching an idea come to life in real time. There’s something addictive about seeing marks turn into meaning so quickly, like a creative high I keep chasing. Each piece feeds that energy, pushing me to keep going, to capture that spark again. It’s fast, raw, and a little chaotic, but that urgency fuels my process and keeps my work alive and evolving.

What would you do with $25,000?

With $25,000, I’d invest in my art business by marketing my artwork online to reach a wider audience. I'm not gonna lie, I'd probably go a little crazy at the art store. At the same time, giving back matters to me—I’d donate a portion to my community art program.

The Art of Elysium

Vote for Carissa Smith 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.


1 Vote
10 Votes
25 Votes
50 Votes
100 Votes
250 Votes
Other Amount

Enter donation - $1 per vote

Are you an artist?

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.

Register For Free

Powered by Colossal

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.


Explore Colossal Fundraising