The OC Register recently announced the semifinalists for Artist of the Year, with eight IUSD students selected for their respective art disciplines. Each year, junior or senior high school students across the county can either apply for or a teacher may submit a nomination in the categories of dance, film & TV, theater, instrumental music, vocal music, fine arts and media arts.
Overall, 112 semifinalists were chosen by a panel of arts teachers from among 923 nominees based on applications, performance videos, art portfolios, film samples and artistic résumés. The seven disciplines are further divided into specialties and divisions. With a growing number of nominees this year and the number of semifinalist spots remaining the same, the selection process was especially competitive, highlighting the merits of our students and IUSD’s commitment to arts education.
During the semifinals, students are invited to be interviewed by a panel of distinguished artistic professionals and faculty members from Southern California colleges. Interviews include a student presentation and follow-up conversations. Up to 28 finalists will be identified as finalists, four in each discipline. From there, one student from each discipline, seven in total, will be named as a 2025 Artist of the Year — the top honor for this program. The finalists and Artists of the Year will be announced next Sunday, April 27.
This year’s IUSD OC Register semifinalists are:
Film & TV
Noah Villanueva, senior, Northwood High School
Instrumental music
Amicus Carrasco, senior, Portola High School
Amy Lantz, senior, University High School
Oooju Robinson, senior, Woodbridge High School
Vocal Music
Chloe Schiffman, senior, University High School
Fine Arts
Sophia Tang Nagel, senior, University High School
Jane Ryu, junior, Portola High School
Media Arts
Davyn Lee, senior, Portola High School
Related:
OC Register Nominates Over 60 IUSD Students for Artist of the Year