I create art to turn lived experience, struggle, and memory into something others can feel, understand, and remember.
You decide who will appear in Artforum Magazine, take home $25,000, and display their work at The Art of Elysium's Salon!
My favorite art to create is work that tells a story—pieces rooted in identity, resilience, service, migration, and culture. I like art that feels personal but also speaks to something larger, where color, texture, and symbolism help people connect emotionally before they even know the full meaning behind it.
Where do you find inspiration?My inspiration comes from lived experience, service, struggle, and the people who keep building despite hardship. I’m inspired by family, culture, memory, discipline, and the places that shaped me from the U.S. to Latin America. Art lets me turn personal history into something universal that others can feel.
What would you do with $25,000?I would use the $25,000 to expand my art practice with better materials, studio space, framing, promotion, and community-based projects. I would also invest in creating more work that tells stories about identity, service, migration, family, and resilience, while making the art accessible to more people
Vote for Carlos Pillcurima 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.
