I create art to honor my mother, who I believe still guides me forward after her passing.
You decide who will appear in Artforum Magazine, take home $25,000, and display their work at The Art of Elysium's Salon!
I’m drawn to black-and-white illustration for its honesty—just contrast, clarity, and intent. After losing my mother, I began to see life through that contrast: light and dark, presence and absence. I like to start with graphite and finish with ink and dip pen, creating work rooted in balance, precision, and meaning.
Where do you find inspiration?I find inspiration in anything beautiful—nature, animals, places, and people. I’m also drawn to horror films and games. My biggest influence is Bernie Wrightson; his work on Mary Shelley's Frankenstein always reminds me why I create. I also look to animated films and cartoons—seeing art come to life is deeply inspiring.
What would you do with $25,000?If I were to win $25,000, I would invest in the tools I’ve never had to fully realize my art. This would allow me to grow, create at a higher level, and build something meaningful, while also easing the burden of my school debt and honoring my mother’s belief in me.
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