I create art because I believe every animal has a story worth telling, especially rescue dogs with special needs.
You decide who will appear in Artforum Magazine, take home $25,000, and display their work at The Art of Elysium's Salon!
I use my art to advocate for shelter pets. My goal is to teach love, patience, respect, and the joy of accepting others as they are. I love the challenge of capturing a complex emotion—like the moment a rescue dog finally feels safe. For me, art is at its best when it’s telling a story of resilience and teaching a lesson about empathy without saying a single word.
Where do you find inspiration?My paintings are of dogs I have rescued. I’m driven by the beauty of an animal that has been through a hard time but still chooses to trust. My paintings are fueled by my passion for rescue; I want to show the world that animals aren't lost or broken—they are just waiting for someone to learn their unique language
What would you do with $25,000?I would put the $25,000 toward animals in need, supporting the rescues that give every dog a voice. As a Grade 1 teacher, I’m inspired by the radical empathy children have. Every day, I see my students practicing how to be kind and how to include others. That 'classroom magic' makes me want to create art that mirrors their world—a place where being different is celebrated and where every living thing is worthy of respect and a soft place to land.
Vote for Sara Gray 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.
