I create to honor the present—raw life, real people. Moments pass; I preserve what cannot return.
You decide who will appear in Artforum Magazine, take home $25,000, and display their work at The Art of Elysium's Salon!
Street photography and cinematic portraits. I focus on raw, unfiltered moments—real people, real environments, and culture as it exists. I blend documentary style with intentional composition to make everyday life feel timeless and powerful.
Where do you find inspiration?In the streets—lowrider culture, late nights, conversations, movement, and overlooked moments. Inspiration comes from real life, not staged scenes. Music, city energy, and people being themselves drive everything I create.
What would you do with $25,000?I’d invest it into my craft and community—gear, travel, and producing a physical magazine that documents real culture. I’d also support my family by helping my father rebuild and providing for my sister and nephew. Finally, I’d fund tattoo removal to meet USMC enlistment standards and continue building discipline, structure, and purpose in my life.
Vote for Mario Hernandez 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.
