I create art to give visibility to forgotten stories, celebrate resilience, and offer hope through expressive color and human connection.
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 expressive figurative work—paintings, illustrations, and mural concepts that combine bold color, symbolism, nature, and human emotion. I’m drawn to artwork that tells a story, honors overlooked people and cultures, and turns struggle into something hopeful, meaningful, and visually powerful.
Where do you find inspiration?I find inspiration in people’s stories, especially those who are overlooked, underestimated, or quietly resilient. Nature, history, public art, American subcultures, education, music, and my own life experiences all shape my work. I’m inspired by the idea that art can help people feel seen, connected, and hopeful. I was blind for 3 years from Type One Diabetes, and found renewed hope when I regained my eyesight.
What would you do with $25,000?I would use $25,000 to create a meaningful public art project that brings people together and uplifts the community. I would invest in materials, mural supplies, student/community workshops, documentation, and outreach so the artwork could involve local voices and leave behind something lasting, beautiful, and hopeful.
Vote for Christopher Paul Onstad 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.
