I paint portraits to connect with the people around me and preserve moments of human presence.
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 work is portraiture, especially oil and pastel portraits created from life. I love the quiet exchange that happens when I’m observing someone closely. I am not just capturing their likeness, but their presence, mood, and humanity.
Where do you find inspiration?I find inspiration in the people and animals around me, in art history, and in everyday moments of connection. I’m especially drawn to the way portraiture can slow time down and make someone feel truly seen in an increasingly digital world.
What would you do with $25,000?I would use the funding to create a body of portrait work centered on connection, presence, and community. It would help cover materials, studio time, documentation, and outreach so I could paint more people from life and share their stories through a public-facing portrait project.
Vote for Emily Carrig 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.
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