The following 85 students have been nominated for the 2024 Artist of the Year in media arts by teachers and private instructors at Orange County high schools and arts organizations.
See more nominees
Dance
Film and TV
Instrumental music
Vocal music
Theater
Fine arts
This year, when students filled out their portion of the nomination application, they were asked to list their strongest specialty in this discipline. In past years, teachers chose this for them.The nominees are listed below with an endorsement from their nominating teacher, the identification of their strongest specialty and a link to their work. Those students missing their specialty and link did not complete their application, however, they are still considered nominees because they are being honored by their teacher and school.
Violet Adams
Digital Painting: 2D
Violet Adams of Buena Park, a senior studying at the Orange County School of the Arts, is a media arts nominee for Artist of the Year in 2024. (Photo courtesy of Kevin Yoneda)
“Violet Adams is an incredibly versatile natural fine artist and digital artist. She can work in any media but it all resonates from her love of drawing and creating characters and digital drawing. She could be at home with a traditional sketchbook and ink pen, but also loves to draw digitally and have all those related tools, brush nibs and colors at her fingertips. Violet gives 100% to every art project and is self-motivated like no other student I have encountered.” — Paige Oden, Orange County School of the Arts
Gabi Ahn
Digital Painting: 2D
Gabi Ahn of Irvine, a senior studying at Portola High School, is a media arts nominee for Artist of the Year in 2024. (Photo courtesy of Gabi Ahn)
“Gabi Ahn has been a staple in my art room since I met her during her freshman year: artmaking for her is serious business. Gabi’s drive, motivation to succeed, and ability to render environments is very rare, in my experience — but she still maintains whimsy and freedom in her constant sketching. … Gabi has blossomed this year: warm, funny, surrounded by friends in class, ready to encourage or give advice – she is an artist to watch.” — Kearci Thompson, Portola High School
Ares M. Alicajic
Digital Art
“I have had the pleasure of working with Ares the last two years at San Juan Hills. Ares has a fantastic ability of tapping into their personal experiences and emotions and translating that into a visual artwork that is relatable to all kinds of people. I really appreciate Ares dedication to growing as an artist and improving in their ability.” — Avery Arman, San Juan Hills High School
Nathan Alexander Ayala
Photography: Digital
Nathan Alexander Ayala of Orange, a senior studying at Villa Park High School, is a media arts nominee for Artist of the Year in 2024. (Photo courtesy of Nathan Alexander Ayala)
“He has an eye for street photography and scenes of lesser seen sides of life, or the overlooked. I enjoy his film and digital works because his composition is spot-on and the clarity of focus and image rendering is sublime. Nathan deserves to be Artist of the Year because this work is his passion. He does not fancy a photography career but sustains delight from the practice of the medium.” — Ingred Shine, Villa Park High School
Reese Bachelder
Photography: Digital
Reese Bachelder of Irvine, a senior studying at Beckman High School, is a media arts nominee for Artist of the Year in 2024. (Photo courtesy of Reese Bachelder)
“She is collaborating with theatre doing the editing for the head shots and was published in the performance playbill for the fall production. She is someone I can count on, and she works hard to photograph events from our Tustin Arts Walk and The State of the Schools. She is a creative thinker and is motivated by exploring photography and she takes the time to work with her peers and collaborate with others. Her passion for the arts is evident in the work she produces, and it shows in her digital landscape and still life photography.” — Lauren Tipping, Beckman High School
Makena Bactat
Photography: Digital
Makena Bactat of Aliso Viejo, a senior studying at JSerra Catholic High School, is a media arts nominee for Artist of the Year in 2024. (Photo courtesy of Erin Bactat)
“Makena is a photography student that just seems to soak up everything a teacher most wants their students to learn. She works hard and appreciates criticism. I have had the pleasure of working with her on two AP Portfolios and have witnessed her dedication to doing her best, even if it means completely starting over! I admire her focus, tenacity and willingness to put in the time it take to produce great work.” — Monica McQueen, JSerra Catholic High School
Stephanie Barajas
Photography: Digital
Stephanie Barajas of Tustin, a senior studying at Beckman High School, is a media arts nominee for Artist of the Year in 2024. (Photo courtesy of Reese Bachelder)
“She is someone I can count on, and she works hard to photograph events from our Tustin Arts Walk as well as sell her own art she is producing. She is a creative thinker and is motivated by exploring photography and she takes the time to work with her peers and collaborate with others. Her passion for the arts is evident in the work she produces, and it shows in her digital imagery.” — Lauren Tipping, Beckman High School
Jordan Bourges
Photography: Digital
Jordan Bourges of Anaheim, a senior studying at Orange Lutheran High School, is a media arts nominee for Artist of the Year in 2024. (Photo courtesy of Jordan Bourges)
“Jordan is recognized for his artistic ability in photography and his passion for digital arts. He is very open minded toward new concepts. He enjoys participating in critiques because he listens thoughtfully and could push himself to improve his photographs. Jordan has his personal style and remains true to it. While he is willing to research and view other people’s work, he is not an imitator. He loves looking through the viewfinder and taking the shot or more, capturing live action.” — Jane Klammer, Orange Lutheran High School
Aidan Campbell
“Aidan is a thinker. We do not just teach students to merely create art or arrive at an end product. We want students to think. Aidan researches the works and styles of artists he admires and ponders and contemplates what he will do and how he will approach everything he creates. His methods are not rushed or hasty so his work represents intentional, deliberate design.” — Eric Keawekane, Los Amigos High School
Rafael Carrera
“Rafael has always showed great personal drive in their work over the years. During our first class together, which took place during quarantine, I saw the incredible creativity and drive in our projects. I’ve recently seen the new direction their illustration work is taking and its a beautiful thing to see. Their use of color and composition is thoughtful and creative.” — Adolph Soliz, Orange County School of the Arts
Gisell Chambi
Digital Painting: 2D
Gisell Chambi of Anaheim, a senior studying at Orangewood Academy, is a media arts nominee for Artist of the Year in 2024. (Photo courtesy of Steve Lopushinsky)
“Over the years, Gisell has continued to develop her technical skills and experiment with different mediums. What I love most about her artwork is the way she incorporates her emotions and heart into her creations. Whenever I see one of Gisell’s pieces, I know it will leave a deep impression on me and leave me thinking.” — Zaidy Olivarria, Orangewood Academy
Yu-Ru Chen
Graphic Design: Typographic Illustration
Yu-Ru Chen of Irvine, a junior studying at Beckman High School, is a media arts nominee for Artist of the Year in 2024. (Photo courtesy of Kirsten Kim)
“Mia is my go-to student. She is always working, designing, and creating. When I have a client that needs a new logo or flyer, I always ask her first. …She is thoughtful with her designs and is always willing to push the boundaries with her art. She takes constructive criticism well and learns from the critiques to grow and mature her designs.” – Gigi Manning, Beckman High School
Ash Chiou
Animation: 2D
Ash Chiou of Irvine, a junior studying at the Orange County School of the Arts, is a media arts nominee for Artist of the Year in 2024. (Photo courtesy of Ash Chiou)
“I’ve had the pleasure of having Ash as a student for a few years and I’m impressed every year at their growth as an artist. I’ve watched as they problem solved, designed and created pieces they didn’t think they could. Ash will certainly achieve any and all artistic aspirations and I’m so proud to be witness to it all.” – Adolph Soliz, Orange County School of the Arts
K R D-B
Photography: Digital
K R D-B of Whittier, a junior studying at La Habra High School, is a media arts nominee for Artist of the Year in 2024. (Photo courtesy of David Edwards)
“Kenna is creative, resilient, hard working, and talented. She has a distinct voice that carries through her work and the work she produces is both deeply personal and transcends that personal nature to connect with viewers. She continues to grow every year as an artist and craves input to develop further as an artist.” — David Edwards, La Habra High School
Tyler DeAngelis
Photography: Digital
Tyler DeAngelis of Yorba Linda, a senior studying at Valencia High School, is a media arts nominee for Artist of the Year in 2024. (Photo courtesy of Tyler DeAngelis)
“Tyler is very skillful in still photography. He enjoys taking pictures of landscapes and still life. His passion for photography has grown over the past year in my class. He shows and displays a variety of different nature, landscapes and people photography.” — Mauro Cardoza, Valencia High School
Ava Diaz
Digital Illustration: Comic, Cartoon, Caricature
Ava Diaz of Irvine, a senior studying at the Orange County School of the Arts, is a media arts nominee for Artist of the Year in 2024. (Photo courtesy of Stefano Ganddini)
“Ava Diaz is a powerhouse of concept, design, and visual storytelling. Her character designs form an instant connection with viewers, and her concept art and illustrations tell stories that pull at the heartstring within moments. She is a well-balanced and professional artist, and can only go up from here.” — RJ Morel, Orange County School of the Arts
Jasmine Diep
Digital Painting: 2D
Jasmine Diep of Walnut, a junior studying at the Orange County School of the Arts, is a media arts nominee for Artist of the Year in 2024. (Photo courtesy of Jasmine Diep)
“The work of Jax Diep brings experimentation and expertise into an incredible mix. Never one to take the safer route, Jax’s work breaks through expectations with surprising choices of media, clear and appealing designs, and professionally crafted visual storytelling.” — RJ Morel, Orange County School of the Arts
May Do
Photography: Analog
May Do of Irvine, a junior studying at Beckman High School, is a media arts nominee for Artist of the Year in 2024. (Photo courtesy of Trinh Vo)
“She is interested nature and architecture, and she has been making leaps and bounds in lighting and portrait photography. She is one of our photography representatives for our arts forum and collaborates with the other art course on campus to let our students what is happening. She is always willing to work hard and collaborate with her other peers. She is trustworthy and motivated to make art and use the process of photography to increase her digital imagery.” — Lauren Tipping, Beckman High School
Allie Espinosa
“Allie’s artistic talent in media arts is evident in her meticulous digital artwork. Her vision transcends traditional boundaries, utilizing technology and innovation to craft captivating and immersive experiences that resonate deeply within her, which is why Allie’s characters are so personal. Her creations pulsate with her heart and passion, each project a testament to her unwavering dedication to pushing the boundaries of artistic expression in the digital age.” — Adrian Lopez, Ocean View High School
Yuyi Fan
Digital Illustration: Anime, Fantasy
Yuyi Fan of Newport Coast, a junior studying at Pacific Academy, is a media arts nominee for Artist of the Year in 2024. (Photo courtesy of Xin Jiang)
“Joy already possessed strong traditional technical skills in drawing and painting but wanted to become more proficient in her understanding of the human form and digital drawing and painting to enhance her art pieces. She put in the time, both in and outside of the classroom to build her skills and increase her depth and understanding of the art-making process. Joy grasps complex concepts quickly and approaches new ideas and techniques with enthusiasm. She has grown exponentially in skill and her ability to express her creative ideas.” — Therese Conte, Pacific Academy
Alexis Tatiana Fuentes
Photography: Digital
“Alexis Fuentes is one of those students that teachers brag about way after graduation. Not only is she smart and compassionate, she also has an incredible talent for photography. Her artwork truly captures the beauty of different cultures and celebrations around the world, and I think the reason why her work is so successful is because she really cares about people. Most of her images are full of color, documenting food, festivals, architecture, and the community itself.” – Audra Ross, El Dorado High School
Chloë Gangloff
Digital: Photoshop, Adobe Animate
“Chloë’s skill is out of this world, but what I may find even more admirable is her willingness to experiment and try new mediums and approaches to art. In addition, Chloe is sharing her passion for art with the rest of our campus here. Chloë took on the role of President of the Art Club and has successfully brought it back to life after a few slow years. It is remarkable to see my classroom packed during lunches with kids that all want to connect with other artists, and they get to do that because of Chloë.” — Avery Arman, San Juan Hills High School
Chris Gonzalez
Digital Painting: 2D
Chris Gonzalez of Santa Ana, a senior studying at Orangewood Academy, is a media arts nominee for Artist of the Year in 2024. (Photo courtesy of Emma Kitchell)
“I have known Chris for many years, and he is an incredibly kind, thoughtful, and creative person. One of the most memorable things about Chris’ art journey has been the development of his visual journal. He writes down all of his ideas, investigates, documents his journey, and the end results are just so meaningful. I am amazed by Chris’s growth. There is so much thought and passion in his work.” — Zaidy Olivarria, Orangewood Academy
Kailey Grandes
Photography: Digital
Kailey Grandes of Irvine, a junior studying at Beckman High School, is a media arts nominee for Artist of the Year in 2024. (Photo courtesy of Emily Nguyen)
“She is interested in architecture and landscapes; however, her studio skills have been making leaps and bounds in lighting and still life photography. She is the photography representative for our arts forum and collaborates with the other art course on campus to let our students what is happening. She is always willing to work hard and collaborate with her other peers.” — Lauren Tipping, Beckman High School
Yiqi (Bill) Guo
Graphic Design: Advertising and Marketing
Yiqi (Bill) Guo of Irvine, a senior studying at Beckman High School, is a media arts nominee for Artist of the Year in 2024. (Photo courtesy of Qing Zhang)
“Bill is curious, helpful, and always willing to learn more about technology and art. He is my mini-art teacher and I usually see him helping other students with critiques and tech support. I recently had training on my laser cutter with the rotary attachment and I asked him to come to the training to take notes. I love how I can rely on his problem-solving skills, and I knew that he would help all the other students with his new knowledge.” — Gigi Manning, Beckman High School
Ruby Hardin
Game Art: Character Concepts
Ruby Hardin of Placentia, a senior studying at El Dorado High School, is a media arts nominee for Artist of the Year in 2024. (Photo courtesy of Alice Hardin)
“As Ruby’s Graphic Design instructor, I’ve seen her evolve substantially since last year. Her initial sketches, with raw creativity, transform into sophisticated, fun characters that tell their own stories. Ruby’s talent in fantasy and character design shines through in her unique, lively art style, reflecting her growth and dedication to art and design. While I can’t precisely define her influences or impact, the potential in her artistic journey is undeniable.” — David Block, El Dorado High School
Mallory Hartung
Photography: Digital
Mallory Hartung of Ladera Ranch, a junior studying at JSerra Catholic High School, is a media arts nominee for Artist of the Year in 2024. (Photo courtesy of Bridget Hartung)
“Mallory has a very sophisticated photographic eye. She displays a natural sense of composition and design, but moreover, she predominantly employs a subtle use of visual metaphor in her work, exhibiting a maturity beyond her years. I have only been working with her for a semester, but I already see not just a photographer, but an artist.” — Monica McQueen, JSerra Catholic High School
Moyan He
Graphic Design: Visual Identity and Branding
Moyan He of Irvine, a senior studying at Beckman High School, is a media arts nominee for Artist of the Year in 2024. (Photo courtesy of Zhenli Shao)
“I first met Nicole (Moyan) He during her Junior year at Beckman High School in the Graphic Design 1 class. I immediately knew that Nicole would have the creativity, skills, and passion to make a strong artist. … Nicole is an intelligent, thoughtful individual that already had a natural eye for composition. I quickly encouraged her to stay in the arts. … I know that Nicole has the creativity, maturity, and skills to thrive in any area she chooses.” — Gigi Manning, Beckman High School
Sinuo He
Photography: Digital
Sinuo He of Irvine, a junior studying at Crean Lutheran High School, is a media arts nominee for Artist of the Year in 2024. (Photo courtesy of Jieni Cao)
“Snow is an artist through and through! Someone who thinks with the end in mind, enjoys the process, and engages the viewer! She wants to pursue a career in the film industry, and this is evident in her photography stills. … Her work reminded me of what Annie Lebovitz would do to prepare, execute, and edit a shoot. Sinuo has what it takes to sustain a long-term artistic career and she continually impresses me with her attitude and efforts! Her heart for helping others, restoring relationships, and spreading positivity is contagious!” — Anna Bloomfield, Crean Lutheran High School
Andreas Holguin
Photography: Digital
“Andy is a quiet person, but his art is always filled with meaning and beauty. His AP Portfolio reflects the decay of inanimate objects, and how textures can evoke certain feelings. Most of his images have a gritty edge to them that one would see on the covers of rock albums, which makes perfect sense because Andy is also a talented musician. His macro photography is beautifully composed and highly detailed.” — Audra Ross, El Dorado High School
Andrew Hsieh
Photography: Digital
Andrew Hsieh of Fountain Valley, a senior studying at Fountain Valley High School, is a media arts nominee for Artist of the Year in 2024. (Photo courtesy of Elsa Ly)
“Andrew has a keen eye and can make a beautiful photograph, but he also has a keen eye for patterns in ideas and people and he connects them all in interesting ways. The first thing Andrew does is look closely by jumping into the fray and capturing hidden details lost to those who stand waiting on the sidelines, hoping some action comes to them.” — Sean Ziebarth, Fountain Valley High School
Sarah F. Hu
Graphic Design: Illustration
“When I look at her work in total, I see her voice and point of view. She is dependable and is open to explorating different ideas. I really noticed her talent when she created the Broadway Hits poster for vocal arts last year. This year she is exploring the idea of nature, technology and human interaction on the environment. Each piece is thought provoking and clearly shows off her talent as an illustrator and designer.” — Gigi Manning, Beckman High School
Trevor Josten
Graphic Design: Typographic Illustration
Trevor Josten of Irvine, a junior studying at Beckman High School, is a media arts nominee for Artist of the Year in 2024. (Photo courtesy of Yu-Ru Chen)
“Trevor is articulate, creative and professional. Trevor is my salesperson and spokesperson for the graphic design pathway. He was chosen to participate in a leadership conference and was hand picked by the district office administration because of his professionalism. Trevor is always growing and developing his creativity. His artwork is deep, reflective and creative. He is innovated and always working to improve. I am always interested in his ideas and process as an artist.” — Gigi Manning, Beckman High School
Audrey Kawasaki
Animation: 2D
Audrey Kawasaki of Huntington Beach, a junior studying at the Huntington Beach Academy for the Performing Arts, is a media arts nominee for Artist of the Year in 2024. (Photo courtesy of Audrey Kawasaki)
“If one can paint with absurdity, then Audrey Kawaksaki should be regarded as a fearless expressionist artist. Audrey is one of the most creatively unique individuals that this program has ever seen. With a focus on animation and writing, she utilizes both of those pathways to create something that is both one of a kind and spectacular. Her writing chops and senses have been honed significantly, through a bit of natural ability, and rigorous training, and it shows.” — Michael Simmons, Huntington Beach Academy for the Performing Arts
Reychelle-Rose Zelica Kelly
Photography: Digital
Reychelle-Rose Zelica Kelly of Placentia, a junior studying at Valencia High School, is a media arts nominee for Artist of the Year in 2024. (Photo courtesy of Yline Kelly)
“rey got started with photography because she likes pretty things, especially flowers. Flowers have always been the focus of your photography. Since the age of 10 she has been taking pictures. Her mom is her motivation and inspiration and continues to use it as a focus to get better.” — Mauro Cardoza, Valencia High School
Ashley Kikuta
Photography: Analog
Ashley Kikuta of Tustin, a senior studying at Beckman High School, is a media arts nominee for Artist of the Year in 2024. (Photo courtesy of Ashley Kikuta)
“Ashley Kikuta is intelligent, thoughtful, and motivated. Her photography has been displayed in contest and art shows throughout Orange County. … She has collaborated with the Theatre program to take the still images of the actors that are on display in the Performing Arts Center. I see her future in photography and her passion and excitement in trying new things allows her to aim high, adapt to new challenges, and use her creative imagination with her photography. Ashely’s photography continues to explore new ideas and she is now moving into relationships and the idea of loneliness in different spaces.” — Lauren Tipping, Beckman High School
Audrey Kim
Digital Painting: 2D
Audrey Kim of Yorba Linda, a junior studying at Valencia High School, is a media arts nominee for Artist of the Year in 2024. (Photo courtesy of Joon-sun Kim)
“Audrey is a very talented artist. All of Audrey’s artwork is well thought out and shows great innovative qualities. Audrey is a self-starter and never needs to be prompted to get to work. Not only does Audrey explore all ideas and processes with great focus on detail, but continuously strives to achieve personal artistic goals.” — Brian Johnson, Valencia High School
Kirsten Kim
Graphic Design: Icons and Logos
Kirsten Kim of Irvine, a junior studying at Beckman High School, is a media arts nominee for Artist of the Year in 2024. (Photo courtesy of Mia Chen)
“Kirsten demonstrated her creative style and personality right from the start. One of her graphic design projects, her mandala information graphic, already showcased her organization, creativity, and eye for design. Kirsten has a strong illustrative style that she incorporates into her artwork. You can see this clearly in her ‘Can’t help falling in love with you’ artwork where she illustrates a mountain and waterfall that take on the appearance of people. … Kirsten is thoughtful and introspective with all her work. She is passionate about art and loves the process of making art.” — Gigi Manning, Beckman High School
Mila Kupenova
Photography: Digital
Mila Kupenova of Yorba Linda, a junior studying at Valencia High School, is a media arts nominee for Artist of the Year in 2024. (Photo courtesy of Mila Kupenova)
“She is so excited to do photography and it shows in her work. She enjoys taking pictures of insects and animals. Her close-up photos on insects are remarkable. It is a real pleasure to have Mila Kupenova in my AP class this year.” — Mauro Cardoza, Valencia High School
Molly Lansing
Photography: Digital
Molly Lansing of Placentia, a senior studying at Valencia High School, is a media arts nominee for Artist of the Year in 2024. (Photo courtesy of Molly Lansing)
“She approaches photography with a versatile lens, as an example, she takes pictures using various camera angles and constantly tries to convey the right vision or message. It is a real pleasure to have Molly Lansing in my AP class this year.” — Mauro Cardoza, Valencia High School
River Lavarreda
Photography: Digital
River Lavarreda of Fullerton, a senior studying at El Dorado High School, is a media arts nominee for Artist of the Year in 2024. (Photo courtesy of River Lavarreda)
“River Lavarreda is a gifted portrait artist. By photographing close LGBTQ friends, River’s contemporary portrait series strives to create respect for the transgender community through kindness and understanding. Most of the images are fun, full of color and life, showing a side of innocence and happiness. River bravely explores the concept of identity and in the process documents the lives of these teens. … I appreciate River’s courage and am always thrilled to see the next portrait that they create.” — Audra Ross, El Dorado High School
Ludi Lee
Digital Painting: 2D
Ludi Lee of Cypress, a junior studying at Cypress High School, is a media arts nominee for Artist of the Year in 2024. (Photo courtesy of Ludi Lee)
“Ludi’s artwork stands out from her peers. From her use of light, color, and shadows to her way of telling the story via the digital medium. She is truly a unique and talented artist. Each art she creates tells a compelling story or evokes a specific emotion, showcasing a level of artistic sophistication that sets her apart from others. Ludi is an outstanding graphic designer and artist. I always look forward to what she will create next.” — Sunny Chang, Cypress High School
Grace Lin
Game Art: Character Concepts
Grace Lin of IRVINE, a senior studying at Beckman High School, is a media arts nominee for Artist of the Year in 2024. (Photo courtesy of Grace Lin)
“Grace is the type of artist that can spend hours on a painting to make seamless or she can create pieces with speed and precision. Grace is great under pressure to meet deadlines for shows or commissions. She created several art pieces for the musical hosted at the high school in two weeks. …Grace is the artist that is welcoming and always offering critiques to her peers. The more she dives into the art piece, the more her ideas spark and create connections to current or future pieces. Her mind is truly fascinating.” — Samantha Squieri, Beckman High School
Hector Lopez
Photography: Analog
Hector Lopez of Anaheim, a senior studying at Anaheim High School, is a media arts nominee for Artist of the Year in 2024. (Photo courtesy of Hector Lopez)
“In our frequent conversations, Hector revealed he spends hours on the bus and on foot exploring North Orange County while taking photos on black and white film. He’s shared his fascination with the uncanny valley and the popularity of AI generated “liminal spaces” on social media platforms. … I believe Hector investigates the sublime and the unsettling in the space of suburbia. I feel that these photos appear as if they could have been taken in most any American suburb. No easy task. An effect created by his deliberate and intentional use of framing/composition.” — Ricky Rivas, Anaheim High School
Nathaniel Cash Lowell
Photography: Digital
Nathaniel Cash Lowell of Lake Forest, a junior studying at Crean Lutheran High School, is a media arts nominee for Artist of the Year in 2024. (Photo courtesy of Brenda Lowell)
“When I met Nathaniel, he was already pursuing his love of photography on his own, with the support and help of his family. What stood out to me about him was his intrinsic motivation and persistence to grow as an artist and photographer. Over the years, he has sought out every opportunity to grow and puts himself in positions to learn and be challenged. He remains humble yet consistent in his process to show up, make work, and, regardless of the outcome, go back out and create more work.” — Anna Bloomfield, Crean Lutheran High School
Jacob Lujan
Animation: 3D
Jacob Lujan of Fullerton, a senior studying at Sunny Hills High School, is a media arts nominee for Artist of the Year in 2024. (Photo courtesy of Daniel Flores)
“Jacob is an exceptionally talented high school digital media artist who consistently demonstrates a remarkable flair for creativity and innovation. His artistic prowess shines through in every project he undertakes, showcasing a keen eye for detail and a deep understanding of various digital media tools. Jacob’s ability to seamlessly blend technology with artistic expression sets him apart, making his work not only visually captivating but also thought-provoking.” — Danny Flores, Sunny Hills High School
Fatima Nguyen Mai
Digital Illustration: Fine Art/Line Art
Fatima Nguyen Mai of Anaheim, a senior studying at the Orange County School of the Arts, is a media arts nominee for Artist of the Year in 2024. (Photo courtesy of Hoang Mai)
“Fatima Mai is an extraordinary artist, she is extremely talented in both digital and traditional painting. Fatima’s artwork shows her advanced skill in painting and illustration. Her artistic commitment is evident in her outstanding work ethic, exceeding that of most high school art students. … Each of her assigned art projects is approached with meticulous planning and foresight and careful sketching, resulting in layered creations rich in vibrant color and historical messages and personal references.” — Paige Oden, Orange County School of the Arts
Jevon Mao
Photography: Analog
Jevon Mao of Irvine, a senior studying at Santa Margarita Catholic High School, is a media arts nominee for Artist of the Year in 2024. (Photo courtesy of David Ding)
“One of Jevon’s standout skills lies in his understanding and adept use of photographic elements. His manipulation of light and shadow creates captivating contrasts, adding depth and emotion to his photographs. His keen sense of composition brings balance and harmony, guiding the viewer’s eye to the focal point. What sets Jevon apart is his unparalleled talent in capturing the human essence. His photography exhibits a profound connection between the subject and the audience, evoking empathy and understanding. He effortlessly freezes moments that elicit a range of emotions.” — Corey Lindabury, Santa Margarita Catholic High School
Robert Martin
“I’m nominating Robert based around his amazing animation. To create the shorts that hes making on his own requires so much dedication and drive. He has been self teaching himself how to use a multitude of programs and has used all that knowledge expertly. There is a fluidty, life and personality in his animation and the passion shines through.” — Adolph Soliz, Orange County School of the Arts
Emerson Meador
Digital Graphics: 2D
Emerson Meador of Irvine, a junior studying at Beckman High School, is a media arts nominee for Artist of the Year in 2024. (Photo courtesy of Mark Dimalanta)
“Emerson is simply amazing me this year. She has already shown so much growth and improvement. She expresses herself visually and also poetically. She is a prolific writer and has been reintrpreting her poems visually. …She takes so much initiative and it is so pleasing to see a student interested and working on their own material!” — Gigi Manning, Beckman High School
Victoria Mendoza Malo Juvera
“Victoria is an amazing photographer! She loves taking photos and has a perfectionist eye when it comes to adjusting her equipment and the application of edits. She is known for her clean light and colorful compositions of travel, objects and people.” — Jane Klammer, Orange Lutheran High School
Bill Xiang Meng
Game Art: Character Concepts
Bill Xiang Meng of Brea, a junior studying at Valencia High School, is a media arts nominee for Artist of the Year in 2024. (Photo courtesy of Bill Xiang Meng)
“All of Bill’s artwork is well thought out and shows great innovative qualities. Bill is a self-starter and never needs to be prompted to get to work. Not only does Bill explore all ideas and processes with great focus on detail, but continuously strives to achieve personal artistic goals.” — Brian Johnson, Valencia High School
Seito Miwa
Concept Art: Key Frame Design
Seito Miwa of Irvine, a junior studying at the Orange County School of the Arts, is a media arts nominee for Artist of the Year in 2024. (Photo courtesy of Sachiko Miwa)
“Seito Miwa has a maturity and professionalism that shines through his art. His designs and illustrations have a classical quality that rivals current industry professionals, with graceful lighting and complex concepts displayed with practiced expertise.” — RJ Morel, Orange County School of the Arts
Ashlin Muldoon
Photography: Digital
“Her color splash landscape photography has won her several scholarships in both community and national contests including Wyland’s National Art Challenge that was just released early this year. I believe Ashlin’s work is so successful because not only does she have the mind for design and natural talent, but she is always creating and pushing herself to improve her art. Her images transform the typical landscape into dreamlike, surreal environments, where the mood of the original image has changed.” — Audra Ross, El Dorado High School
Serina Na
Graphic Design: Advertising and Marketing
Serina Na of Yorba Linda, a junior studying at El Dorado High School, is a media arts nominee for Artist of the Year in 2024. (Photo courtesy of Young Na)
“Her anime-inspired designs are a vibrant blend of fantasy and reality, marked by an imaginative use of color and texture. What sets her apart is her evolution, with each piece showing cleaner lines and more refined details. Her work not only displays technical skill but also a unique storytelling ability. Serina’s art, mainly her character design, is not just visually appealing but emotionally engaging.” – David Block, El Dorado High School
Niklas Nace
Photography: Digital
Niklas Nace of Costa Mesa, a senior studying at Costa Mesa High School, is a media arts nominee for Artist of the Year in 2024. (Photo courtesy of Niklas nace)
“Through his lens, Niklas doesn’t just document moments; he encapsulates the feelings and zeitgeist of the youth, creating visually striking images that resonate with authenticity. What sets Niklas apart is not only his technical skill but his unwavering passion and dedication to seeking out subjects and music events that define his generation. He goes beyond mere documentation, immersing himself in the vibrant energy of youth culture to create one-of-a-kind images that reflect the pulse of the moment.” — Kirby Piazza, Costa Mesa High School
Katherine Nate
Photography: Digital
Katherine Nate of Riverside, a senior studying at Orangewood Academy, is a media arts nominee for Artist of the Year in 2024. (Photo courtesy of Katherine Nate)
“Katie sees the world through a different set of lenses, where she finds beauty and heart in everything, even in the places that most of us overlook. I have known Katie and her family for many years, and I can confidently say that she is a thoughtful and observant person. What I love most about her artwork is how she makes a personal connection with each piece.” — Zaidy Olivarria, Orangewood Academy
Valerie Trúc-Mai Nguyễn
Digital Painting: 2D
Valerie Trúc-Mai Nguyễn of Lake Forest, a junior studying at the Orange County School of the Arts, is a media arts nominee for Artist of the Year in 2024. (Photo courtesy of Valerie Trúc-Mai Nguyễn)
“I feel Valerie will make a fantastic illustrator, character designer and studio artist due to her ability to create great characters, patterns, great color compositions and such a variety of marks in her vibrant drawings and her digital illustrations. Her strong ability to mix various media allows her art pieces to surprise and delight the viewers.” — Paige Oden, Orange County School of the Arts
Zack Obando
Digital Illustration: Comic, Cartoon, Caricature
Zack Obando of Costa Mesa, a junior studying at Costa Mesa High School, is a media arts nominee for Artist of the Year in 2024. (Photo courtesy of Zack Obando)
“Zack has demonstrated unparalleled creativity and skill in the realm of visual arts. His dedication to perfecting his craft is evident in the meticulous detail and originality he brings to each piece. Zack’s love for digital illustration goes beyond personal fulfillment; it extends to a sincere desire to make a career out of his passion. His commitment to becoming a professional illustrator is reflected in his relentless work ethic, always pushing the boundaries of his artistic abilities. Zack consistently delivers high-quality artwork that captivates audiences and showcases his unique artistic voice.” – Kirby Piazza, Costa Mesa High School
Elijah Owens
“In the midst of the chaos of high school sports games, Elijah has an uncanny ability to freeze moments that convey the intensity and emotion of the competition. His skill goes beyond technical proficiency; each photograph tells a story, revealing the raw beauty of the athletic experience.” — Maximiliano Maldonado, Tustin High School
Alyssa “Cody” Parial
Photography: Digital
Alyssa “Cody” Parial of Cerritos, a junior studying at Rosary Academy, is a media arts nominee for Artist of the Year in 2024. (Photo courtesy of Alyssa “Cody” Parial)
“She is a student who understands who she is and what she feels, embracing all aspects of herself and the world around her in her art. Her artwork takes specific ideas and abstracts them into thoughtful and engaging artworks. She always brings an interesting perspective to each assignment, isn’t afraid to think outside the box, and trusts her artistic instincts. Those three attributes in addition to her positive attitude, make her a great artist and student.” — Valeria Duque, Rosary Academy
Christie Park
Digital Illustration: Anime, Fantasy
Christie Park of irvine, a junior studying at Portola High School, is a media arts nominee for Artist of the Year in 2024. (Photo courtesy of Gibum Park)
“Christie Park demonstrates grit and softness as she creates artwork about her Korean identity. As an artist, she takes inspiration from her experience as a first-generation immigrant: creating beautiful pieces that capture how it feels to teeter between cultures. In Korea, she was enrolled in an art school, and here at Portola High, she has taken every opportunity she can to continue developing as an artist.” — Kearci Thompson, Portola High School
Avni Patel
Game Art: Character Concepts
Avni Patel of Irvine, a senior studying at Beckman High School, is a media arts nominee for Artist of the Year in 2024. (Photo courtesy of Veena Patel)
“She gives her full effort in each project, not cutting of corners. Avni is receptive to feedback and works towards any goals that are set by her teachers. She is a creative problem solver who thinks outside the box and will go above and beyond every time. Avni has a love for creating and designing various other worlds that represent a dystopian life.” — Samantha Squieri, Beckman High School
Victoria Pham
Digital Illustration: Comic, Cartoon, Caricature
Victoria Pham of Irvine, a junior studying at the Orange County School of the Arts, is a media arts nominee for Artist of the Year in 2024. (Photo courtesy of Victoria Pham)
“Tori has been an absolute pleasure to have in class she pushes herself out of her comfort zones as an artist and I’ve watched the amazing outcomes, her draftsmanship, creativity, and strong sense of design have led me to nominate her. she is a strong talent with a bright future as an artist laying in front of her.” — Adolph Soliz, Orange County School of the Arts
John Paul Reotutar
Photography: Digital
John Paul Reotutar of La Habra, a junior studying at La Habra High School, is a media arts nominee for Artist of the Year in 2024. (Photo courtesy of John Paul Reotutar)
“JP has been working diligently as a photography student for the past few years and has really been coming into his own by cahllenging himself to learn new techniques and really begin to develop his personal style. As he has been building his portfolio of work he has been really working to understand how the choices he makes can better serve the messages he is trying to communicate through his work.” — David Edwards, La Habra High School
Adrian (Brian) Resendiz
“Brian Resendiz knows how to take a character or meme and explode it into the funniest bits of animation. His work is Comedy Central-inspired by way of standup. His references are retro and the moments he creates are amusing, awkward and observant. He’s a crack writer as well and knows how to real characters in funny new ways.” — Aaron Orullian, Orange County School of the Arts
Allyn I. Richardson
Graphic Design: Illustration
“Allyn is a truly unique artist with a creative eye for digital art. Their creativity and skill knows no bounds and I am always excited to see Allyn’s work. Allyn is a well-rounded visual artist who has created many projects spanning form painting and drawing to mixed media and digital art. They are a wonderful student who is such a positive addition to any class or project.” — Charna Lopez, Orange County School of the Arts
Manuel Francisco Rivera
Animation: 2D
Manuel Francisco Rivera of Buena Park, a senior studying at Buena Park High School, is a media arts nominee for Artist of the Year in 2024. (Photo courtesy of Manuel Francisco Rivera)
“Manuel Rivera, a remarkable talent in our program, demonstrates exceptional skill in animation and video. His work on ‘The Snowman’s Scarf’ is a highlight, showcasing his artistic finesse and emotional storytelling. This animation deeply moved its audience with its technical proficiency and narrative elegance. Manuel has a unique ability to integrate animation with video, producing visually captivating and emotionally rich content.” — Shayan Vaziritabar, Buena Park High School
Elina Faith Tevilus Shook
Digital Art
Elina Faith Tevilus Shook of San Juan Capistrano, a junior studying at St. Margaret’s Episcopal School, is a media arts nominee for Artist of the Year in 2024. (Photo courtesy of Elina Faith Tevilus Shook)
“She exudes great talent, endless curiosity, strong work habits, and is an independent thinker. She is involved in many of our extracurricular arts actives or events and her work is stellar. On top of all of these wonderful attributes, she is overall a lovely and genuine human being with a big heart! Elina truly strives to make the world a better place.” — Heather Holmes, St. Margaret’s Episcopal School
Charlie Sisley
“Although of a shy temperament, he, more than any of the other students, asks questions showing that he is engaged with the topic and venturing out along his own creative thoughts. He also started a video game development club for the school and created a working demonstration video game using the Godot engine.” — Kent Baker, Capistrano Valley High School
Kaitlyn Smith
“She is very passionate about photography and it shows in all her works. She likes to take pictures of different concepts and different angles. Her photography skills are very good and it shows in all her works. It is a real pleasure to have Kaitly Smith in my AP class this year.” — Mauro Cardoza, Valencia High School
Julia Steen
Photography: Digital
Julia Steen of Placentia, a senior studying at El Dorado High School, is a media arts nominee for Artist of the Year in 2024. (Photo courtesy of Toni Steen)
“Julia Steen is one of those students that has the talent and maturity of a professional artist, and yet she is only 17 years old. Her photography is made up of serene, natural landscapes that are visually stunning. Her images often feature a single silhouette, isolated from the real world, immersed in a perfect setting that has been untouched by humankind. … Julia’s work reflects decisions regarding climate change and how our actions affect future generations.” — Audra Ross, El Dorado High School
Brennan Sullivan
Photography: Digital
Brennan Sullivan of Laguna Niguel, a junior studying at St. Margaret’s Episcopal School, is a media arts nominee for Artist of the Year in 2024. (Photo courtesy of Dana Sullivan)
“Brennan is an independently motivated young artist who goes beyond assignment work to make photographs that speak to his passion for the outdoors. His technical aptitude is complimented by his inner drive to carry his camera to unique, and often remote locations to photograph landscapes. He has expressed through critiques that he not only feels connected to nature but to a history of photographic image making. …His landscape photography reminds the viewer that these natural compositions are only available to those that seek them out. One must observe them, frame them, and work to “paint” the light in post-production to ensure the image speaks authentically to the scene as it appeared en plein air.” — Joseph Hoff, St. Margaret’s Episcopal School
Oliver Tham
Photography: Digital
Oliver Tham of Irvine, a junior studying at Beckman High School, is a media arts nominee for Artist of the Year in 2024. (Photo courtesy of Dylan Pham)
“He has been in digital photography for three years and is interested in photojournalism. He wants to start his own business in photography and continue to grow in the art. He is trustworthy and responsible and willing to go the extra mile for his peers. He spends time working in Lightroom and Photoshop and he wants to continue his education in the arts. His studio skills have been making leaps and bounds in lighting and setting up his subject matter. Oliver takes his education seriously and adapts when faced with challenges.” — Lauren Tipping, Beckman High School
Kathryn V. Thomsen
Photography: Digital
Kathryn V. Thomsen of Placentia, a senior studying at Valencia High School, is a media arts nominee for Artist of the Year in 2024. (Photo courtesy of Rachel Poirier)
“Kathryn has been photographing since the early age of 13. In my photography class, every time the class goes out to photoshoot for Kathryn it is not just a photoshoot, it is an opportunity to put concepts together and go the extra mile to do her very best. She likes to plan things ahead, but when it comes to photography it all comes together for her.” — Mauro Cardoza, Valencia High School
Katherine Tran
“First and foremost, Kath possesses immense talent and a keen understanding of artistic techniques. She is able to bring her ideas to life with precision and creativity. Furthermore, Kath demonstrates a distinct artistic vision, allowing her work to transcend traditional boundaries and communicate deeply with the audience. Another noteworthy aspect of Kath’s artistry is her purpose. Each of her pieces carries a profound message or theme, reflecting her passionate involvement with contemporary issues and societal matters.” — Roni Hanke, Rancho Alamitos High School
Daniel Tseng
“Daniel is a dedicated and talented artist. I have only had him in my program for six months, but I can see that he has spent hours growing his skills as a digital artist. His grasp of figure and form is very advanced. Daniel has a desire and passion to turn his creativity into a career by pursuing game design and art. This goal shows that his view of art is not just a hobby, but a focus for his future.” — Grace Waldner, Portola High School
Ashley Urquiza
“What sets Ashley apart is her ability to envision and execute projects that go beyond the norm. She embraces challenges with zest and approaches every task with a fearlessness that is truly commendable. Ashley has an uncanny ability to bring her ideas to life, even when faced with unexpected obstacles. It is this combination of talent, vision, and determination that makes her such a standout student.” — Nicholas Stecher, Anaheim High School
Alyssa Uy
Game Art: Character Concepts
Alyssa Uy of Rancho Santa Margarita, a senior studying at the Orange County School of the Arts, is a media arts nominee for Artist of the Year in 2024. (Photo courtesy of Ziyi Zheng)
“Alyssa is an amazing artist who always surprises me with her thought process when it comes to her designs. She not only designs beautiful artwork but she has a story and reason behind her illustrations. Alyssa has a wide range of skills when it comes to designing characters, props, paintings and more. She takes the time to explore her sketches and ideas before completing the finished piece. She is an incredibly gifted student and I have had the pleasure to see her thrive in my classroom.” — Ammie Gomez, Orange County School of the Arts
Nathan Daniel Veloz
Animation: Visual Effects
Nathan Daniel Veloz of Buena Park, a senior studying at Sunny Hills High School, is a media arts nominee for Artist of the Year in 2024. (Photo courtesy of Mel Tenkoff)
“Nathan is an immensely talented high school visual effects artist who consistently dazzles with his exceptional skills and creativity. His proficiency in the intricate realm of visual effects art is truly commendable, as he effortlessly navigates the complexities of visual effects to produce stunning and immersive experiences. Nathan’s keen eye for detail, coupled with his innovative approach, results in visual effect projects that captivate and inspire.” — Danny Flores, Sunny Hills High School
Jorryn Voegele
“Jorryn is an outstanding student who always goes above and beyond with her artwork. She does more than is expected and is quick with her illustrations. She enjoys drawing mostly characters in different environments and focuses on facial expressions. Jorryn has a passion for drawing you never see her without her iPad sketching. She has exceptional artistic skills and talent.” — Ammie Gomez, Orange County School of the Arts
Angie Wang
Digital Painting: 2D
Angie Wang of Irvine, a junior studying at the Orange County School of the Arts, is a media arts nominee for Artist of the Year in 2024. (Photo courtesy of Rick Wang)
“Few artists show such natural and stellar visual storytelling skills as Angie Wang. Showing a broad range of genres, from humor to horror, from cartoonish to painterly, Angie is an artist of balance, maturity, and the skill to tell whatever visual story needs to be told, and to tell it right.” — RJ Morel, Orange County School of the Arts
Jhernice Yandoc
“Jhernice (Kieran) has been a ball of artistic energy since freshman year here at OCSA. They were a sponge wanting to soak up any and all knoledge for their growth. And over the years they’ve definitely shown so much growth in their art. Their drive, passion and talet is something I’ve admired over the years.” — Adolph soliz, Orange County School of the Arts
Jessica Yang
Digital Painting: 2D
Jessica Yang of Orange, a senior studying at the Orange County School of the Arts, is a media arts nominee for Artist of the Year in 2024. (Photo courtesy of Margaret Zhang)
“Jessica is an outstanding well-rounded artist whose ability in visual arts is stellar. Not only is her artistic ability some of the best I’ve seen, but her work ethic, enthusiasm and collaborative sense as an artist make her one of a kind. Her skills in digital art as well as painting and drawing are some of the best I’ve seen. She is a well-rounded artist and human who will use her skills in a variety of ways to create amazing things.” — Charna Lopez, Orange County School of the Arts
Serena Zhang
Graphic Design: Typographic Illustration
Serena Zhang of Irvine, a junior studying at Beckman High School, is a media arts nominee for Artist of the Year in 2024. (Photo courtesy of Yu-Ru Chen)
“I have seen Serena grow into a strong, confident artist. Serena Zhang is a consistent artist who is very detailed oriented. She consistently shows evidence of self-expression and original ideas. …Serena feels very comfortable drawing and sketching during her creative process. She is open to critiques and takes constructive criticism well.” — Gigi Manning, Beckman High School
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