SAN DIEGO, California. March 24, 2025– Outside The Lens (OTL) is thrilled to announce the return of “Voice Out,” its second annual juried youth media arts exhibition, taking place on Saturday, May 3, 2025, from 4-7 p.m. at The Wonder Lab in San Diego’s vibrant East Village. Young artists from across San Diego will showcase their bold creativity through photography, mixed media, short films, and animation offering their unique perspectives on the world.

OTL will exhibit all submitted artwork  and award cash prizes to the top three entries in each category. According to Eyal Brower, Voice Out 2024 artist and former member of OTL’s Youth Council, “being able to share my work in an exhibition changed how I saw my photography. It allowed me to interact with the public and other artists and feel more comfortable about showing my work in the future.” Visitors of all ages can enjoy this free,  inspiring event, featuring compelling artwork, tasty refreshments, a live DJ set, thought-provoking panel discussions, and a special awards ceremony celebrating these talented young creators. Art enthusiasts seeking an elevated experience can purchase tickets to an exclusive VIP reception and exhibition preview held from 3-4 p.m. before the main event. 

Established in 2024 by Outside The Lens Executive Director Sarah Beckman, “Voice Out” provides a powerful platform for youth to share their perspectives through art. This year’s theme, Change, invites young artists to examine personal and societal transformation, highlighting both challenges and possibilities. “The teens in Outside The Lens programs aren’t just navigating the transition into adulthood—they are witnessing and shaping major shifts in their communities,” said Beckman. “Change is at the heart of every great movement, and these young artists are using their creativity to explore, question, and redefine the world around them.” 

Curating and evaluating this exceptional showcase is a distinguished panel of jurors, each bringing a unique perspective and wealth of expertise to the exhibition. Natalia Aguirre is an OTL Land + Lenses program apprentice. Evan Apodaca, filmmaker and multimedia artist, explores historical narratives and social issues through his lens. Diana Benavidez, an innovative artist, curator, and educator, infuses her work with themes of culture and identity. Amanda Dahlgren, an accomplished photographer and educator, offers an eye for technical precision and storytelling. Victor De La Fuente, a multimedia artist, educator and performer, approaches storytelling from unexpected angles. Skylar Economy, an Emmy nominated documentary filmmaker, got her start at Outside The Lens.

Olimpia Vázquez Ojeda, a youth centered arts administrator, is Program Manager at A Reason To Survive. Brittany Prieto, Senior Education Specialist, Youth Programs at The Getty Museum, oversees the Unshuttered program centered on young photographers. Rich Soublet, a celebrated portrait photographer, brings his deep understanding of visual storytelling and composition. Rounding out the panel is Susanna Peredo Swap, founder of Vanguard Culture, and promoter of  diverse artistic voices and international art exchanges.

Outside The Lens invites the community to join in celebrating these talented young artists and their powerful stories. For more information about the exhibition, ticket purchases, and event details, visit https://www.outsidethelens.org/events/voiceout/ .