Gabby ’15 attended the National YoungArts Foundation Competition in Photography from Mar. 18-23 after visual arts instructor Judith Tanzman suggested that she participate. Gabby was one of 100 YoungArts winners to participate in the Los Angeles Regional Program. She spent these five days attending workshops, interacting with other high-school winners, and meeting various artists in the different fields.

According to its website, YoungArts selects a talented group of young artists in the literary, performing, visual and design fields in order to encourage future artists to pursue their passions.

So far the program has honored more that 17,000 young artists with over $6 million in awards. Some of the artists who have participated as mentors include Mikhail Baryshnikov, Edward Albee and Frank Gehry.

Gabby said that the program was a positive experience and an amazing opportunity to meet artists who have achieved success in their fields. She was in the photography group consisting of 12 or 13 other students. Her group met professional photographers, artists and others in the art industry.

Gabby said that she would recommend this program to other students who have an interest in any form of art.

“It’s kind of a once in a lifetime opportunity, and anyone who can should apply because it will change your life,” Gabby said.

To apply for next year, students must be in grades 10-12 and must submit an online application and an audition portfolio before a yet-to-be-determined date in October.