Bold contrasts, textured oils, and street-rooted stories of struggle, resilience, and overlooked beauty transformed into powerful expression
You decide who will appear in Artforum Magazine, take home $25,000, and display their work at The Art of Elysium's Salon!
I love working on oil painting, drawings, and murals. I create work that documents community landmarks and reflects the Chicano culture in Orange County. My art focuses on everyday spaces that hold meaning— capturing their history, energy, and connection to the people who live there, while preserving the stories that shape the community.
Where do you find inspiration?My grandparents are my biggest inspiration. Their resilience molded me into the person that I am today. I also find inspiration from artists that came before me and the people in my own community. The places I see every day—local landmarks, neighborhoods, and familiar spots are the places that i focus on. I’m just painting what I know and what feels real to me.
What would you do with $25,000?I’d support my disabled mother and my grandparents, who shaped who i am. I would also give back by working with the next generation, especially kids raised by their grandparents or family, like me. At the same time, I’d invest in my art— materials, larger paintings and mural projects in my community. It would help me stay consistent and keep building work that reflects where I come from.
Vote for Oliver Cortez Velasquez 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.
