Voice Out 2024

In May 2024, Outside The Lens launched its inaugural Voice Out: A Youth Media Arts Exhibition, showcasing the incredible talents of young artists from across the region. This year’s theme “PLACE,” inspired 118 submissions, each one a unique representation of what place means to our young creatives.

Connecting to the Creative Sector

A diverse jury of local artists, educators, youth and cultural workers selected the top 16 artworks, which received special recognition. Our 2024 jury members were:

Geena Benson: Student at FIDM the Fashion Institute of Design & Merchandising in Los Angeles, OTL Youth Council alumni, local dancer, and dance photographer
Delana Delgado: Puerto Rican film photographer from San Diego’s South Bay, advocate for community art access.
Ariana Drehsler: Photojournalist based in San Diego, California, who focuses on social and political issues.
Wendy Fisk: Director of the San Diego chapter of the American Photographic Artists (APA).
Allan Manzano: Founder of Dynamo Design Group, a minority-owned creative agency offering branding, design, and marketing solutions.
Diego Torres-Casso: Queer Chicano artist, educator, and photographer, born and raised in the 626.

Voice Out Panelists

Our panel discussion, moderated by Outside The Lens’ Executive Director, Sarah Beckman, brought together an interdisciplinary group to explore the theme of “Place” in relation to youth voice and creative expression. Meet the 2024 panelists: