My art is rooted in culture, identity, and lived experience. I create to preserve culture, unite people, and bridge generations.
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 type of art to create is bold, tribal-inspired narrative painting. I use strong colors, cultural pattern, and expressive figures to create work that carries emotion and presence. I’m drawn to art that pulls people in instantly where they feel something before they understand it, and recognize a piece of themselves within it.
Where do you find inspiration?My inspiration comes from my Ethiopian heritage and the layered personal, social, and historical experiences that shape my identity. Moving between cultures has deepened my awareness of difference and connection. I translate these experiences into visual stories that reflect diversity, belonging, and the shared human experience.
What would you do with $25,000?I create from a small corner of a one bedroom home I share with family. This would allow me to build a studio and expand my practice. I would also give back to Downtown Aurora Visual Arts (DAVA), a nonprofit that shaped me, taking what was given to me and pouring it into the next generation, where creativity becomes a path to identity, connection, and possibility.
Vote for Leya Admasu 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.
