To paint a portrait--from life--is the best way to get to know another human being--and help them get to know themselves.
You decide who will appear in Artforum Magazine, take home $25,000, and display their work at The Art of Elysium's Salon!
I crowdfund to give painted portraits from life--while recording an oral history in conversation--to people from all walks of life in Brooklyn, NY to make a portrait of each neighborhood, through the faces and voices of the people who live here. I then produce free public exhibitions where all of the folks who participate--and the public--can meet their neighbors in this unique light, hear each other's stories in this quiet reverence--and then take the paintings home to keep--for FREE.
Where do you find inspiration?I find inspiration in every single person that I meet on this Free Portrait Project. As Bill Nye said, "Everyone you will ever meet knows something that you don't." Everyone has something to say that's worth listening to, and big feelings that resonate with people that they haven't met yet. By broadcasting the faces and voices that I record, I'm able to share with the world what we all have in common, and the unique perspectives that make up the whole big picture of who we are.
What would you do with $25,000?With $25,000 I'd be able to give FREE painted portraits and oral histories to 100 everyday people, regardless of their ability to pay for such a thing. With that funding, I can pick a neighborhood in New York City to document and give that neighborhood their flowers. (and I would set aside $1,000 to take a vacation right after--it's a lot of work.)
Vote for Rusty Zimmerman 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.
Limited-time: 2X votes ends on Tue 5/12 at 9PM PDT
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.
