I want to turn feelings into color, spark human connection, make sense of the abstract unknown and translate music into pictures
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 large-scale canvases that demand presence. In a world of small, fleeting images, I want my work to hold space and time. My goal is to create pieces that live with people for years—art that evokes a memory, a feeling, or a moment in their life. I want my paintings to feel like emotional landmarks, something you don’t just see, but deeply connect with.
Where do you find inspiration?I find inspiration in music and life’s emotional turning points—divorce, breakups, transformation. Music unlocks feelings words can’t reach, and those moments of loss or change bring raw honesty. I translate those emotions into visual form, creating from a place where memory, sound, and feeling meet.
What would you do with $25,000?I would create an art therapy workshop space focused on emotional expression and healing. With large canvases, music, and guided themes, people could explore their inner world without pressure. Part of the funds would ensure access for those who couldn’t otherwise afford it.
Vote for Emilie M Gerts 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.
