Art lets me capture fleeting thoughts and emotions, turning them into something tangible that can inspire, question, or comfort others.
You decide who will appear in Artforum Magazine, take home $25,000, and display their work at The Art of Elysium's Salon!
My favorite art uses acrylics at full intensity, with bold, saturated colors like neon orange, electric blue, and hot pink. I mix realism with exaggerated tones—portraits with glowing skin, stylized animals, or neon-lit city scenes. Instead of soft blending, I let colors clash for energy. The result is dramatic, eye-catching work that feels alive, expressive, and impossible to ignore.
Where do you find inspiration?I find I look for inspiration by focusing on intense, eye-catching visuals. Observe real lighting—sunsets, neon signs, or bold characters. I tend to look for things that feel visually “loud” or emotional— taking note of these or creating collection boards. Then reinterpreting and creating another piece of artwork in my own way.
What would you do with $25,000?With $25,000 I would start by paying off some debt which would in turn give me more freedom to create without pressure. With this freedom to create, I would invest on stocking up all my favourite supplies. I would also take a portion that I’d treat as “art growth”: building a portfolio, photographing my pieces properly, and even selling through platforms like Etsy or promoting more on Instagram.
Vote for Shelby Bury 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.
