Michelle Gagne

I create art to stay in control of my mind—turning chaos into color, pain into purpose, and reclaiming power one piece at a time.

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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 20 ends Thursday the 14th of May at 7PM PDT

What is The People's Artist?

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What is your favorite type of art to create?

My favorite art to create is a mix between eerie and enchanting—where creepy meets cute. My work blends pop surrealism with touches of urban horror, bringing together skulls, undead figures, and whimsical characters wrapped in bold, often neon color palettes. Each piece carries a sense of haunted beauty and playful darkness, inviting viewers into a world that feels both unsettling and strangely comforting.

Where do you find inspiration?

I find inspiration in the beauty of contrasts—the eerie and the playful, the dark and the whimsical. Influences come from horror films, urban decay, childhood nostalgia, and the strange details others overlook. Music, emotions, and everyday chaos shape my ideas, while late nights and quiet moments let them grow. I’m drawn to things that feel a little off, a little magical, turning discomfort into something expressive, bold, and unexpectedly beautiful.

What would you do with $25,000?

With $25,000, I’d invest in growing my art business and creative freedom. I’d upgrade my workspace, stock high-quality materials, and expand into prints, apparel, and packaging for my brand. Part would go toward marketing, building a stronger online presence, and reaching new audiences. I’d also set aside funds for stability, giving me the space to focus fully on creating, evolving my style, and turning my passion into something sustainable.

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