I make art to share how I see the world. To give back and to mark that I was here.
You decide who will appear in Artforum Magazine, take home $25,000, and display their work at The Art of Elysium's Salon!
I make contemporary portraits that look back. As a Black American artist, it matters to me to stay honest on the canvas and in the pixel. The stare in my work is not polite, not soft, not easy. My portraits dare you to look away- dare you to pretend I didn't see the slight, or hear the backhanded comment, didn't notice the way Black bodies are so often to absorb harm quietly. Along that vein my new work "Watching the Chaos". Black folks not marching... Regardless of the criticism we're resting.
Where do you find inspiration?Everyday life, books, music are my source of inspiration.
What would you do with $25,000?Go Lay Down” Rest & Refusal Studio: A Pop-Up Space Concept: Use the funds to create a temporary, immersive studio / salon space (could be a gallery pop-up, community center, church multipurpose room, small rented storefront) called something like: “Go Lay Down: A Room for Refusal” “Watching the Chaos: A Rest Sanctuary” “The People’s Living Room” What happens there: Your portraits on the walls: Black people resting, not marching, not performing. Comfy seating, space.
Vote for Jacqueline Thompson 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.
