Voice Out: A Youth Media Arts Exhibition

Elevating Young Artists & Amplifying Their Voices

Voice Out is a youth-driven media arts exhibition. This annual event furthers our mission to ignite confidence in young people to pursue creative pathways and drive social change. Through Voice Out we provide a platform for young artists ages 8–19 to express themselves through digital artworks including photography, mixed media, and illustration. Through this community celebration of creativity and youth voice, young artists become more confident and engaged in the world. 

Youth-Driven Decision Making

We’re committed to incorporating youth perspectives into our decision-making and programs. This means involving our students in event planning, media relations, and even jury selection. This not only builds creative connections for our youth, but offers community leaders a fresh perspective.

Our Program Framework

Our annual program includes a juried exhibition along with an opening event and community celebration, featuring entertainment and a panel discussion. 

Each year’s jury includes a diverse panel of youth, media arts professionals, educators, and community leaders who select the winning artworks. The exhibition is a gallery-style showcase of works from all submitting young artists. To open the exhibition, we host a free community celebration at OTL’s headquarters in San Diego’s East Village. The opening includes a sponsor preview, live DJ set, food, and drinks. The opening event also features a panel discussion with youth artists, media arts professionals, and community leaders on the theme, artwork, and impact. It’s moderated by Outside The Lens’ Executive Director.