My art belongs to the people I capture. I create to freeze our genuine connections and the inherent beauty I see in every single connection.
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 art to create is black and white photography that captures the human body in motion. We often focus so heavily on fashion and external aesthetics, but the body itself is pure art. Stripped of all that, we are masterpieces designed by the universe—quite literally made of stardust. Capturing that raw, unadorned beauty is what inspires me the most.
Where do you find inspiration?A lot of my inspiration is drawn directly from my models and friends. I am deeply moved by their personal stories and their journeys toward recognizing their own beauty. I am also greatly inspired by iconic photographers like Herb Ritts, Annie Leibovitz, and David LaChapelle.
What would you do with $25,000?I am currently starting over after losing everything I own, including my life's work and equipment, in a fire and subsequent theft. With $25,000, I would first rebuild my professional kit to get back behind the lens. Then, I would use the remaining funds to produce a large-scale artistic project: a black-and-white series capturing the human body in motion, ultimately hosting a gallery exhibition to celebrate the raw, authentic beauty of 'The People' who inspire me.
Vote for Jason McQuain 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.
