Amplifying Youth Vision: Voice Out Exhibition Celebrates Creativity and Change
May 22, 2025
The Wonder Lab in San Diego’s vibrant East Village transformed into a dynamic gallery space on May 3, 2025, as Outside The Lens (OTL) hosted its second annual Voice Out exhibition. Drawing 203 attendees, including 150 young artists, the event created a powerful platform for youth creative expression centered on the theme of “change.”
Youth Voices Lead the Way
This year’s exhibition showcased photography, mixed media, short films, and digital artwork created by talented young artists from across San Diego. More than just participants, youth took active leadership roles in the event itself, with six young leaders helping orchestrate everything from event planning to media relations.
The exhibition celebrated twelve winners selected from numerous submissions: Rafael Aguilar, Austen Baldis, Dominic Dulay, Adan Hurtado, Bayani Lim-Schmid, Tessa Hamana, Florian Lim-Schmid, Leo Nguyen, Emmanuel Paraan, Hernand Parubrub, Aiyana Paul, and Evida Tadeo. Their works represented diverse perspectives on personal and social transformation.
A Multisensory Celebration
The Wonder Lab buzzed with creative energy throughout the evening. Attendees enjoyed a live DJ set—noshing on nachos and collaging mixed-media self-portraits. . When guests weren’t creating or connecting with one another, they were immersed in the powerful visual narratives created by San Diego’s young artists.
“Rather than seeing superficial interpretations, we witnessed the complex inner worlds of these young creators,” noted Sarah Beckman, Executive Director of Outside The Lens. “They’re using creative expression to process their experiences and advocate for the changes they want to see in their communities.”
Dialogue on Change
A highlight of the evening was the thought-provoking panel discussion on CHANGE, which brought together young creators, educators, and established artists. Moderated by Allize Jimenez, the conversation explored how artistic expression can drive personal and social transformation, sparking meaningful dialogue throughout the venue.
For many youth participants, Voice Out represented their first gallery exhibition experience. The awards ceremony offered a particularly memorable moment as winners took the microphone, had their photos taken, and received enthusiastic applause from hundreds of family members, friends, and supporters who packed the space.
Building Creative Pathways
As the exhibition concluded with celebrations of the twelve winners, the message resonated clearly: when young people have platforms to amplify their voices, they create powerful art that challenges perspectives and inspires meaningful dialogue across communities. Their visual narratives on change invite viewers to see the world through fresh eyes and imagine new possibilities for our shared future.