Elio Studies in Amsterdam

Hi! I’m Elio (they/them), a PDX based student with the opportunity of a lifetime to study in Amsterdam this summer! I’m a genderqueer artist @eliosmellslikeroses on instagram. Please reach out and share your must see queer art exhibits and venues in Amsterdam!

To be perfectly candid I had conflicting feelings about a self directed charity page. I feel out of place asking for external support on something that brings me so much joy when others here are in deep and painful need and seeking donation. It’s incredibly meaningful to me that anyone would read what I have to say and want to be a part of my journey. This trip is an instrumental part of my education that will guide me to expert knowledge that will have a lasting effect on my community. I write to you earnestly knowing that in order to uplift others I must show that same care to myself.

In addition to selling my artwork and local fundraisers I’m here to ask for your support in living my dream study abroad program this summer. Your donation will be cherished in the form of feeding me and aiding in expenses to make the most of my time in Amsterdam. Each dollar goes towards museum tickets, transportation, and memories I’ll hold close to my heart going forward in my career. This program itinerary is just the beginning of my work in advocacy and holistic healing. We’ll be studying under Queer BIPOC lead groups, reps from COC Amsterdam, public health officials and sex workers themselves. My cohort and I will be immersed in Dutch culture and learn from not only our program leaders, but attendees of the PRIDE parades both in Portland and Amsterdam, each other, and the international community we’ll encounter every day abroad.

This trip is so meaningful to me as a queer artist that has found community here stateside. I’ve struggled with addiction and disabilities that have interrupted and complicated my professional journey to being the person I believe I’m meant to be. I’m tender with the lessons my difficulties have taught me and would not be who I am without them. I want to help this world with radical acceptance and trauma informed care. This takes form both in my career aspirations and my personal development as an artist. With a nightlife of paintings, drag and burlesque performances I am studying to become a psychologist specializing in sexology and holistic care.

Amsterdam will be one of many horizons in my future. This program may be just a few short weeks, and my birthday if that’s extra incentive for you, but it sure won’t be my only time focused on learning. Beyond this program I am a student deep in my core, in a way that will surpass my graduation date. Your donation has a profound impact for me as an individual and a greater invaluable place in the work I strive to carry on.