I make art to work through what’s broken in me—and put something real back into the world.
You decide who will appear in Artforum Magazine, take home $25,000, and display their work at The Art of Elysium's Salon!
The kind of art that is bold, dynamic, and full of movement. I’m drawn to color saturated, unapologetic color that pushes and pulls against itself. There’s energy in that, and tension,& life. So it feels alive, like it’s still in motion even after it’s finished. Working with different materials also changes how I approach each piece. It forces me to respond instead of control everything from the start. I have to adjust, rethink, and sometimes completely shift direction, and that’s the beauty!
Where do you find inspiration?I find a lot of inspiration in the process of learning. The more I explore new techniques, materials, and ideas, the more it opens up possibilities. Trying something unfamiliar, making mistakes, figuring out how things respond that’s where a lot of creative energy comes from for me. It’s not just about the end result, it’s about staying curious & letting that curiosity drive what comes next.Inspiration, for me, isn’t one big moment. It’s a constant build of small observations and experiences.
What would you do with $25,000?If I had $25,000, I would bring Transcendence to life—creating 50 face casts for transgender individuals to express their truth through art. I’d fund materials, document their stories, and secure space to create and exhibit the work. The goal is to build something real, visible, and powerful that can be shared at Dallas Pride and beyond.
Vote for Heather Estrada 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.