Ethan Erstlings’ (10) piece ‘I wasn’t born this way,’ hangs in the San Diego Museum of Art, Young Art 2025: Nurture and Nature exhibit. The exhibit took place from April 5 to May 18. Photo courtesy of Ethan Erstling.

Olive Valentine Cooper (12) is one of the students who submitted their art piece to the exhibition. ‘It felt like I had reached a small milestone in my life that would eventually lead me to bigger goals and aspirations. I’ve never really considered that people would want to install my work into a museum and that people would want to come see that installation, even if it was just for a little bit,’ Valentina Cooper said.

Ethan Erstling (10) takes a picture while visiting the exhibit. ‘The piece is called ‘I wasn’t born this way,’ and the inspiration is from how I believe everyone is equal at birth but through circumstance they can change drastically. This work shows an innocent little kid turning into some kind of a terrorist. It shows that even the best kids, if taught wrong, can become bad,’ Erstling said. Photo courtesy of Ethan Erstling.

Lily Goldenhar (11) displays ‘Where Did it Go?’ ‘It feels amazing to have my art displayed and to get more recognition for my art. Seeing my name and artwork on the wall of a museum just makes me feel really proud and accomplished, and makes me think about all of the work I have done to get to this point in addition to where I strive to go in the future,’ Goldenhar said. Photo courtesy of Lily Goldenhar.

Lasya Vajrala (9) is currently a Digital Art and Design student. ‘This opportunity was something that I never thought would happen in high school but now that it did, I feel very motivated to continue on this path and showcase my work wherever I can,’ Vajrala said. Photo courtesy of Lasya Vajrala.