I create art to turn emotion, memory, rebellion, and identity into something people can actually wear and feel.
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 handcrafted hats and wearable pieces that live somewhere between fashion, sculpture, storytelling, and rebellion. My work blends traditional hatmaking with music, graphic design, symbolism, and emotional narratives inspired by migration, identity, memory, and transformation. I’m interested in creating objects that feel personal, cinematic, imperfect, and deeply human rather than simply decorative.
Where do you find inspiration?I find inspiration in contrasts: elegance and chaos, beauty and decay, tradition and rebellion. Music has a huge influence on me, especially punk, ska, jazz, and cinematic soundscapes. I’m also inspired by migration, nostalgia, Latin American culture, old photographs, forgotten objects, imperfect craftsmanship, and the emotional weight people carry through life. Sometimes inspiration comes from something as simple as a burned matchstick or a storm over Miami.
What would you do with $25,000?I would invest it into growing The Hatelier, my creative workshop in Miami, expanding access to better materials, tools, and production capabilities while preserving the handmade nature of my work. I would also use part of it to develop immersive artistic experiences that connect people with craftsmanship, storytelling, and wearable art in a more personal and meaningful way.
Vote for Gilberto Lazo 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.
