Marcel "SEL" Blanco

Seeing someone moved by a mural or painting reminds me the work has a life beyond me. Those moments I truly cherish.

Currently 2nd

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You decide who will appear in Artforum Magazine, take home $25,000, and display their work at The Art of Elysium's Salon!

Voting for the Top 5 ends Thursday the 4th of June at 7PM PDT

What is The People's Artist?

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What is your favorite type of art to create?

I am drawn to finding balance in contrasts, favoring the raw and the imperfect over clinical precision. This results in pieces that feel intentionally gritty yet thought-provoking. At the core of my practice is an exploration of opposing forces, where I pit rough techniques against something flowing or the beauty of nature. Using drips and splatters, I inject energy into every piece. For me, the reward is the process; reaching a cohesive equilibrium is a challenge and truly satisfying.

Where do you find inspiration?

I find inspiration in music, art, and everyday life. Music is huge for me, it shifts my mood and helps me visualize ideas before I even start sketching. I also love scrolling through images online or flipping through magazines; sometimes a unique color or a weird shape is all it takes to get my brain moving. Beyond that, just living life and capturing specific moments or feelings keeps my creativity fueled. Whether on paper, canvas or digital, I’m just turning those sparks into something real.

What would you do with $25,000?

Winning this prize would provides a little financial freedom I need to deepen my practice and expand my reach. People have shared how my murals instill neighborhood pride and have even helped them navigate life’s challenges. I am especially passionate about reaching students in schools where art programs are limited, showing them that a creative career is a viable path. In an uncertain world, my goal is to use these funds to bring more hope, beauty, and inspiration to those who need it most.

The Art of Elysium

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