Presenting this year’s Theme:

The Tijuana Sewage Crisis

For those living on the US-Mexico border, daily life is tainted by the noxious stench of the never-ending mass of raw human sewage, carcinogenic chemicals, viruses, bacteria, and parasites from the Tijuana River. The waste water is easily aerosolized by the crashing waves, spewing clouds of pollutants and pathogens many miles away from the water, presenting a critical risk to our native ecosystem. Three bottlenose dolphins have already died from the bacterial pollution. Over 300 bird species, many of which are endangered and threatened, use the now polluted estuary as a stop in the Pacific Flyway. Furthermore, the Tijuana River Mouth Marine Conservation Area is a key nesting habitat for 36 seabird species, two sea turtle species, and four pinniped species. If this problem continues, all of these beloved species will be in grave danger, and our once pristine blue beaches will be a sewage-filled health hazard.

This year, we are partnering with Clearwater Innovation to bring attention to this pressing issue and celebrate our beautiful San Diego coastline and native marine life. We encourage all participants to consider this theme as they create their art pieces. Join us as we work towards a future with crystal-clear waters that we can all enjoy!

Eligibility & Categories

Ages 18 and under
Preference for kids from the San Diego area
Art Submission Categories
2D/3D Art
Photography
Poetry

Prizes!

Have your work showcased virtually on the AAP San Diego Website, at a physical gallery in San Diego, and at the H3SD 2024 Summit at UCSD Medical School!
Be recognized at an in-person awards ceremony
Multiple category awards
Gift cards
& more!

Youth Art Council

Is art just not your thing, but you still want to advocate to change the world in a way unique to you? Are you interested in a leadership role, working behind the scenes to help judge the contest?

If so, apply for the Youth Art Council!

The application is open to students 9-18 years old in San Diego County.

Click below for more details and the application!

Stay updated!

Follow us on Instagram @enviro.art.ca and check out our Facebook page!

Questions?

Email us at enviro.art.ca@gmail.com

Special thanks to all our mentors, students, volunteers, and partner organizations for making this year’s contest possible!