For the third consecutive year, the Center for Youth Equity hosted its Youth Art Contest and Exhibit, spotlighting the creativity and voices of young artists in the New Orleans area. The event, which aims to elevate youth perspectives through artistic expression, featured 53 artworks created by participants aged 11 to 21 from Orleans, Jefferson, St. Bernard, and St. Charles Parishes—more than double the number of submissions received in previous years.
“The young people we work with in our violence prevention efforts have a profound understanding of their communities and the resources that can improve opportunities for themselves and their families,” said Dr. Katherine Theall, Executive Director of the Center for Youth Equity. “This exhibit allows us to amplify their voices and foster community conversations about what young people need to thrive.”
This year’s theme, “PERCEPTION,” encouraged artists to explore the intersection of personal identity and external viewpoints. Submissions ranged from self-portraits to surrealistic pieces and social commentary, showcasing a rich variety of styles and themes. The exhibit is on display at The New Orleans Healing Center and will run through January 20.
In addition to being featured in the exhibit, participating artists competed for prizes awarded by a panel of judges. Awards included a $1,000 Grand Prize, four $300 Age Group Prizes, and Honorable Mentions with gift bags of art supplies.
The Grand Prize was awarded to Leonidas Hampton, a senior at McDonogh 35 Senior High School, for his self-portrait. “Art is deeply personal for me, serving as a journey of self-exploration,” said Leonidas. “My unfinished self-portrait symbolizes the flaws that shape my identity, reminding us that we’re all works in progress. Vibrant colors reflect the rich culture of New Orleans, with each hue telling a story—from the Mississippi River to the lively streets. Growing up in this creative atmosphere, I’ve learned to embrace authenticity and vulnerability. Through my art, I use imperfections to teach everyone how to accept theirs.”
The Age Group winners were as follows:
11 to 13: Jy’Asia Douglas
14 to 15: Sara Vukelic
16 to 21: Eshita Lahiry
16 to 21: Piper Schaumburg
Honorable Mentions were awarded to Hailey Berryhill, Khaiden Smith, Felix Woods, Kamali McElroy, Kristian Michael Kreuger Skjolaas, Taryn Moore, Aalyiah Sartin, Charity Dicken, Jaia Cager, and Sofia Olexia-Daigle.
All artwork is also available in a virtual exhibit: View the gallery here.
About the Center for Youth Equity
The Center for Youth Equity is a culturally responsive youth violence prevention research center embedded within the Violence Prevention Institute of Tulane University. It focuses on building and strengthening networks for youth violence prevention across New Orleans and the Gulf South. The Center is funded by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention as part of the National Centers of Excellence in Youth Violence Prevention (YVPCs).
