I work with discarded and overlooked materials. My work is an attempt to find light within loss and to make beauty from what remains.
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 is that which offers an invitation to the viewer. A subtle nudge towards self-reflection, contemplation and interconnection. An opportunity to think about something from a different angle- or in a new way. Using found objects and accessible materials, my works place more emphasis on conceptual depth than inherent materiality. I strongly believe that value lies in the form and execution of the idea itself rather than the “quality” of the materials used.
Where do you find inspiration?During nature walks, seeking solitude and peace, I was often unable to escape the sight of waste and discarded human-made debris. I found this deeply upsetting. These sculptures are my attempt to assuage negative feelings and to revalue the discarded. Rather than imposing a predetermined structure, I listen closely to the thingness of things; responding to the textures, histories, and tensions already present within the objects I collect.
What would you do with $25,000?I would donate the $25,000 to the Hamilton Arts Council, a local non-profit service organization dedicated to supporting artists and arts organizations across the Greater Hamilton Area.
Vote for Jeffrey Van Leeuwen 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.