I create art to transform my experiences into something that moves people, sparks curiosity, and makes me,them, us feel alive.
You decide who will appear in Artforum Magazine, take home $25,000, and display their work at The Art of Elysium's Salon!
Art unfolds in so many forms that choosing one feels impossible. I love creating themed soaps, painting, and bottle art — the scents, colors, textures, stones, crystals, beads, fabrics, clays, and glitter on a wide variety canvass of can wake up the senses. I want each piece to feel crafted just for them, and I love hearing why they connected with it and what it made them feel.
Where do you find inspiration?I find inspiration in feelings and experiences—good, painful, joyful, or traumatic. Scents, colors, textures, stones, crystals, beads, fabrics, clays, and glitter spark ideas, whether I’m making themed soaps, painting, or bottle art. I’m big on keepsakes, and I love hearing why someone connects with a piece and what it brings up for them.
What would you do with $25,000?With $25,000, I’d expand my art with better tools, materials, and space, and begin training to work with children and those facing emotional or mental challenges. I want to use my creativity to help people heal, connect, and feel seen through art, while growing a business built on meaning, keepsakes, and personal connection.
Vote for Tiwana Smith 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.
