I strive to create art that feels like a forgotten fairytale, nostalgic, dreamlike, and filled with quiet stories waiting to be discovered.
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 most drawn to creating moody, narrative driven paintings that feel like fragments of a forgotten fairytale. I focus on wildlife and natural elements, building quiet, atmospheric worlds where emotion and symbolism take precedence over realism, inviting viewers to pause and find their own meaning within the piece.
Where do you find inspiration?My inspiration often begins with moments from life or a photograph that resonates with me. From there, I build my own reference images digitally composing scenes, adjusting lighting, framing, and subject placement until the image feels cohesive. I then translate it into paint, using the reference as a foundation while allowing room for intuition and atmosphere to develop.
What would you do with $25,000?With $25,000, I would invest in fully committing to my art practice. It would allow me to dedicate uninterrupted time to creating, build a cohesive body of work, and pursue gallery opportunities. I would also use it to upgrade materials and document my work professionally, helping establish a strong foundation for a sustainable, long-term career.
Vote for Nikayla Starr Nielson 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.
