As DAY, I use UV blacklight to reveal hidden energies transforming trauma, memory, and consciousness into something visible and healing .
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 uses layers UV reactive paint over holographic surfaces, building two worlds in one piece. In natural light you see one truth. Under Blacklight a new world emerges, nerve pain patterns, and hidden memories and messages begin to glow. That moment of transformation is why I make art. Each mark is intimate and intentional carrying layers of vibration and trauma. I create to illuminate what is usually left unseen and to heal the wounds that are yet to be understood.
Where do you find inspiration?I find inspiration as cliche as it sounds in the beauty of everything. Sonder, a word my little brother always brings me back to, teaches me to find meaning in the small and overlooked. My husband grounds me when the work pulls me into dark places, reminding me who I am. My roots and Mexican American heritage remind me that my ancestors carried stories in their bodies long before I had language for it. Pain transforms. Neons reveal it and hold vibrations that carry meaning and memories
What would you do with $25,000?With $25,000 I would build Corazones Felices into something real. I am a glitch in the system, a first generation daughter of immigrants living with disabilities who found salvation in art. I want to give that to unprivileged students who deserve the same chance. Art is a weapon for change. Proceeds from sold work would fund community programming initiatives. Possibility means nothing without access and hope for future generations .
Vote for Dana Leon Palma 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.
Limited-time: 2X votes ends on Wed 5/20 at 9PM PDT
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.