Helios & Xico Student Juried Exhibition 2025: Transforming Lives Through Education
Best in Show
ZULY BUSTAMANTE
Iglesita que es lo que tú guardas?
College Senior at University of Arizona
Artist Statement: Throughout my life, religion and my connection to it have been a topic that comes up more often than I wish it did. Being raised Catholic in a traditional Mexican home came with limitations that have impacted my life. As I grow and separate myself from this connection, I ask myself: little chapel, what is it you hold for me?
Artist Bio: As an artist, I aim to make my work connect with the viewer and include who I am as a Chicana/xicanx raised in Tucson, AZ. It is important to me to convey my work as a visual exploration of my past experiences and ideas, providing a unique take as a Mexican American born in the U.S. My creative work reflects my experience as a woman, balancing cultural tradition with modern individuality. I challenge ideas about identity, age, and culture—particularly within communities of color—by creating works that are playful, expressive, and rooted in daily life. I explore how behaviors shift as we age and how cultural expectations shape identity across generations.
SAM HANSEN
Get Stuck
High School Junior at McClintock High
Artist Statement: Get Stuck shows the enlightenment and passion someone may feel learning something new or familiar, creating a certain a-ha moment. In my piece, I wanted to convey how learning can be difficult, depicted by the spines of the cactus piercing through the pages of the open book, but also exciting and beautiful, as depicted by the erupting, glowing flower.
I illustrated the cactus as more of a figure of light to create a sense of wonder for the viewer, reflecting on the theme of education and how one's curiosity in something can lead to a rabbit hole of unknown interests. The sub-context of this piece represents how I felt learning about my mother and her cultural roots in a more formal education environment.
I chose a cactus to represent the deserts of Tucson. There was a disconnect between me and my mother because I did not live with her or see her often, so finding her in other aspects of my life was comforting. Being able to find that relationship in family made me more appreciative and aware of the importance of learning.
Artist Bio: My name is Sam, and I am 15 years old. I’m mainly a self-taught artist, taking help and inspiration from my teachers in art and technical theater during my high school years. I’ve tried many different mediums of art, but working with acrylic paint, colored pencil, jewelry, and digital is definitely my favorite. I like to draw things from my interests, but also around topics that may be insightful or eye-opening to happenings around the world. I hope to get into an out-of-state art college and make a name for myself, inspiring others.
SHECCID ORTIZ
Salvation through Growth
College Sophomore
Artist Statement: This piece is a visual reflection of how education has transformed my life. For me, education is more than school; it’s been my salvation. During moments when home didn’t feel like home, or when I struggled to fit into traditional expectations, learning and art became my safe space, a place where I could belong, express myself, and imagine something greater.
The central figure, with a moth as a symbolic mask, represents myself. I chose a moth instead of a butterfly because moths are just as beautiful, but often overlooked, just like people who go unnoticed but carry deep strength and potential. Education has allowed me to see my worth and learn how to fly in my own way.
The mushrooms and leaves growing throughout the piece represent resilience. In Mexican culture, there’s a saying: "La vida no está hecha de flores y rosas", which means life isn’t always beautiful or easy. But even in darkness, we grow. Like mushrooms, we can thrive in unexpected conditions and become something unique.
The skulls in the background symbolize the pain, fears, and limitations I’ve had to leave behind old versions of myself or the struggles that shaped me. They’re not meant to evoke fear, but to honor survival and transformation. They remind me that through education, I’ve been able to break cycles, heal, and build a future beyond what I once thought possible.
Education didn’t just teach me, it gave me a new life. It helped me grow through the complex parts, transform my identity, and keep reaching for something greater.
Artist Bio: I'm a proud Mexican and Hispanic artist with a deep hunger for greatness. I'm always seeking new opportunities to grow, create, and challenge myself. I love experimenting with new materials and ideas, letting them guide my creative journey. Much of my work features plants, not because I'm an expert, but because I've always been captivated by their beauty and the life they bring to our surroundings. I'm passionate about connecting with my community through art and inspiring those around me.
CECILIA CARDENAS
A Look from the Past to the Present
High School Junior
Artist Statement: My piece "A Look from the Past to the Present" depicts me in the future graduating high school and looking back to my Aztec ancestor.
I want to convey the meaning that your family members will always be with you, even if they're that far down the line. I convey this even further because on my ancestor’s helmet, I've written my last name and my family member’s initials in Aztec symbols.
Also, the coin that looks like a house on his helmet is shown on my graduation cap, further demonstrating the meaning that your family members will always be with you. The water is supposed to mean the path I'll soon follow to start my life, long, windy, and sometimes bumpy.
Artist Bio: I am a 16-year-old realism portrait artist. My passion is to draw, and I have no doubt about it. Any time you see me, I'm always working on a piece, whether it is Marilyn Monroe or Jeepers Creepers, it all falls in the same category, me and my interests. I've been drawing for about 6 years now, and my main goal as a young artist is to explore how far art can take you in life, such as tattooing. I want to become a tattoo artist when I get old enough, which I've already been practicing for about a year now.
MERCEDES KIM
When Tigers Used to Smoke
College Senior
Artist Statement: "When tigers used to smoke" is a South Korean phrase used as "once upon a time" when telling fables. The stories tell of tigers as both mythical and real, both a trickster and a protector, and the mountains where I grew up let the stories come alive. The painting depicts where I learned to form my sense of creativity and whimsy, and my love of animals.
Artist Bio: I learned to paint because paintings are expensive, then I went back to school because nothing grounds you like effortlessly talented artists of all ages. I am a lover of whimsy with a touch of untold story, and I hope to continue my pursuit of visual excellence.
CITLALLI GARCIA
Pulled Into the Door
College Freshman
Artist Statement: My parents are Mexican immigrants who have influenced the way I live by teaching me about Mexican superstitions. I learned and was constantly warned about multiple superstitions; however, constantly being warned led to my constantly being worried about doing the wrong things. “Pulled into the Door” represents the superstition of avoiding sleeping with your feet pointed at the door since it invites death. It shows a frightened me, who is desperately reaching for help to be pulled away from the door in an aim to undo what I have done wrong. I sewed the mouth with blue thread as thread work is important to my Mexican culture, and to show how trapped I feel by my anxiety to follow superstitions. Through learning about cultural superstitions, I have realized that there are a plethora of things that I could do wrong, but it has also made me feel more connected to my culture.
Artist Bio: My name is Citlalli Garcia, and I am a proud first-generation Latina who has been drawing for as long as I can remember. Art is something that I do as a pastime because of how therapeutic it is for me.
JAYDEN IRVING
Desert Threads
High School Senior
Artist Statement: Growing up in the city has made me lose most of my connection to the customs and traditions of the Navajo reservation. This has caused me to have a need for learning everything my culture has to offer and exploring lost traditions that many don't uphold or have simply forgotten about.
My artwork was influenced by the beauty of Navajo culture and my personal connection to my native heritage. Through my art, I show teachings of the past inspired by my great-grandma, who used to weave. I aim to bring remembrance to the now-dying traditions that were once so lively. My pieces connect to the theme of Transforming Lives Through Education by showing old teachings of Navajo culture that many of the new generation have not upheld.
Artist Bio: Hello! My name is Jayden Irving, and I’m a Navajo artist who was born on the reservation and then moved down to Phoenix. I enjoy all mediums of art because they allow different ways for me to express myself, and I hope to continue to grow my skills as I get older.
MAYLAI MENDOZA
Virgin Mary
High School Senior
Artist Statement: My project was based on the Virgin Mary shrines found throughout Mexico and how the religion was historically used as a tool of oppression. Over time, however, these shrines have become their own sort of art that is deeply embedded within Mexican culture itself.
Artist Bio: My name is Maylai Mendoza. I’m 16, and I come from a Hispanic household. I use art to communicate how I view the world and the way I feel. I mix in things from my culture as well as things I find interesting into my art.
SELASE AHASTEEN-CAÑEZ
Rising Dance
High School Senior
Artist Statement: My journey as an artist is deeply intertwined with my experiences of learning and growth. Each lesson, whether in school or not, has shaped both my identity and roots. Through my art, I explore the creative power of knowledge and the variety of ways it influences our perspectives and interactions with the world.
Artist Bio: My name is Selase Ahasteen-Canez, and I'm an 18-year-old artist at NSAA. Born and raised in Arizona, and I’m a member of the Colorado River Indian Tribes. My art is a collection of my emotions and a combination of various media.
ALONZO CORONADO
Never Can Say Goodbye
College Senior
Artist Statement: The “learning takes many forms” sentiment was the driving force behind this artwork. I wanted to honor the arduous journey that has helped shape me into who I am becoming. “Never Can Say Goodbye" is a sequel to my Rites to Passage piece from last year, “Everything I Am”.
This depicts someone taking the time to observe and reflect on the various life lessons I have experienced through the loss of vital family members and friends. I have lost friends both in death and ones who are still alive, for the relationships that fell through. The learning that has come from the grieving and mourning of both family and friends during my college experience has been one of great hardship, but one that shows me the importance of human interaction and understanding the impact anyone can hold.
Artist Bio: I am an Indigenous and Mexican American 4th-year student at ASU with a major in Animation from Chandler, Arizona. I strive to make culturally significant artwork in various mediums.
CHELSEA PHILLIPS
Girls in the Grass
High School Senior
Artist Statement: I painted two portraits that my friend and I took of each other downtown in the grass to represent the school friendships and how I've socially progressed through my educational journey at Sunnyslope High School.
Artist Bio: Currently, I am in my Senior year at Sunnyslope High School. My free time is filled with securing good grades, hanging out with friends, and painting.
APOSS ROMERO
Rabbit Dance
High School Senior
Artist Statement: My artwork is inspired by my Kiowa culture. Every Fourth of July, I dance powwow, and a core memory for me has been "The Rabbit Dance". It's meant for the younger kids, and the motion is jumping while having your hands by your forehead. Your index fingers poke up while every other finger is folded down. Now I'm older, I help my younger cousins and siblings understand how and why this dance is important. In my piece, it's a depiction of my current self teaching a younger version of me. The reason is to motivate others to participate in their cultural dances or events in order to keep their heritage and culture strong.
Artist Bio: My name is Aposs Romero, and I'm a Native American Artist enrolled at Corona del Sol, starting my senior year. The tribes I'm a part of are: Cochiti de Pueblo (which is where my name 'Aposs' originates from), Kiowa (I participate in ceremonies and dances), and Northern Cheyenne.
LUCILLA TARYOLE
My Heart in the Skies
College Senior
Artist Statement: My heart gallops through the skies each night.
This abstract illustration reflects my personal journey, which is strengthened by a longing for reconnection. I see myself as a horse following my family's presence. The buffalo represent my grandparents, my brother, and my cousins. They leave behind trails in red and blue. These colors, drawn from the Kiowa oak leaf, symbolize wisdom. The Mvskoke swirls beneath reflect the four seasons and the land and water. Elements that keep us grounded in life. My love and longing to be with my people keep me alive for my identity and my culture's teachings. The act of love is what keeps the soul of cultural teachings and community alive and growing.
Artist Bio: I am Lucilla Taryole, and I am a Kiowa and Muscogee (Mvskoke) Creek Native. I am currently an animation major at the Herberger Institute for the Design and Arts. I am a student worker for both the Center of Indian Education, the Indigenous Turning Points Magazine, the American Indian Studies department, and the Labriola National American Indian Data Center.
SOFIA ADAIH VILLA
Historias de Iglesia
High School Senior
Artist Statement: Religion coexists with culture and education in various ways. Religion manifests in the form of sermons, readings, stories, and often finds its way in media. Religion is often used to teach about values, lessons, and rules one should follow. It intertwines with education and fosters morals, ethics, and appreciation for diversity and complex ideas. In this piece, I utilized oil pastels and mineral oil to blend vibrant colors across paper, imitating the colorful light filtering through cathedral windows. Similarly, symbols and pictures in stained glass are used to teach and show stories depicted in the bible.
Artist Bio: Hailing from an immigrant family, preserving traditions and values has always been emphasized. Through my work, I strive to display said values and showcase my cultural and religious roots. Therefore, my themes concentrate on my experiences growing up and navigating life through the lens of a young Mexican artist.
SAWYER RIVAS
You Did It!
College Sophomore
Artist Statement: This is a portrait I created of myself and my high school art teacher on the night of my graduation. She, like me, is Hispanic, and throughout high school, she helped me grow not just as an artist but as a person. Her guidance played a huge role in building my confidence, both in my art and in myself. As I finish my first year at ASU, I often think back to that night and remind myself that with the right mindset, I’m capable of achieving anything I set out to do.
Artist Bio: I am a Phoenix-born and raised Chicano artist. I grew up in the Chicano and street art community thanks to my dad, "Talent," to whom I also owe my love of art, as he taught me the basics. I'm currently finishing my first year at ASU, studying at the Herberger Institute for Design and the Arts, where I’m majoring in Animation. After I graduate, I’m interested in joining the animation industry and creating my own visual novel.
DAISY GALLARDO
I Am Porque Tú Eres
College Sophomore
Artist Statement: This artwork is digital and was created using the ibis Paint X app. For the theme "Transforming Lives through Education," I chose to tell my story by depicting myself at my family home after graduating from high school. I wanted to illustrate an introspective moment I experienced after a long day of celebrating. I am at the pool, enjoying the cool water while reflecting on feelings of accomplishment and nostalgia, all while holding my diploma. Next to me are two pairs of shoes: the leather sandals belong to my grandpa, and the flip-flops belong to my friend. In the water, some silhouettes represent the three of us.
These silhouettes also depict my younger self, and the body movements of my family and friends symbolize love and encouragement. In addition, the word "Gallardo" is written in concrete, which is my last name. This is inspired by actual writing found in the concrete of my home, which has protected and raised my relatives. The name "Gallardo" represents attributes such as joy, resilience, and bravery. Through this family history, I aim to uphold my last name, just as my relatives do through their actions. Overall, my goal for viewers is to understand that my family and friends are the roots of who I am today. I am incredibly grateful for their unconditional support throughout my life. They have taught me values such as kindness, humility, strength, hard work, and loyalty by embodying these qualities in their own lives.
Artist Bio: Hello, my name is Daisy Gallardo. I am a sophomore at Grand Canyon University, pursuing a Bachelor of Science in Nursing. I am passionate about both nursing and art, as they allow me to connect with others in meaningful ways. To me, nursing is about bridging the gap between humanity and science, and I aspire to advocate for and care for those who are most vulnerable. Through art, I have found a creative outlet to express myself and give voice to the experiences of others, complementing the passion I bring to my studies as an emerging professional.
GAVIN MOORE
The Reciprocator
High School Junior
Artist Statement: My concept for “The Reciprocator” is the idea of reciprocation, specifically around that of teaching/learning and the media, along with the effects they have on individuals. In the painting, the head and hands morph into one another, showing the literal morphing of ideas and people. Central to the piece, the one eye in the middle, is the combination of many eyes morphing, showing that within the teaching of one another, there is a process of repetition. The exposed brains show the intelligence shared and exchanged between each other. The symmetrical hands and movement represent how both individuals work off of one another. The overall dark tone and cool colors of the piece provide contrast to the illusion of light in the center of the piece.
Artist Bio: Gavin Moore is predominantly a pencil/sketch artist based out of Tempe, Arizona. Gavin is well-renowned for his unique and expressive character designs in his art and ideas. He has exhibited and gifted art to many friends and peers, such as birthday gifts or appreciation presents. In the future, Gavin wishes to go to Northern Arizona University via scholarship and hopes to become a comic book creator.
SOFIA ADAIH VILLA
Novelas
High School Senior
Artist Statement: Novelas: An important factor in my life, and in the lives of many, is the media we consume. Media and culture are great influences in today's world, and they exist in various forms that can be utilized as a method of teaching. For me, media was a great influence in my education. Education looks different for everyone, and for me, it showed up in the form of books and television. As a young Mexican American, I grew up learning and consuming media from both of the identities I belonged to. A memory I'm especially fond of is watching Novelas at my grandma's house, which is the subject matter for this piece. At the time, Novelas were black and white films, which inspired my work and my reason for utilizing charcoal and chalk.
Artist Bio: Hailing from an immigrant family, preserving traditions and values has always been emphasized. Through my work, I strive to display said values and showcase my cultural and religious roots. Therefore, my themes concentrate on my experiences growing up and navigating life through the lens of a young Mexican artist.
BELLA STRUMPFER
Sterling Shadow
High School Senior
Artist Statement: My work heavily reflects my identity, memories, and roots. A common theme was my jewelry's unique points of origin, and their connections to me- ranging from decades ago, from family members to sentimental charms from my present day, they all play a key role in my identity.
Artist Bio: I have shown an interest in art ever since I was young; everything I do now reflects that, and I aim to incorporate that into my daily life. I am a senior at Sunnyslope High School, and I'm currently taking my second year of AP art. I'm excited to investigate new art forms as the year goes on!
MACKENZIE LICK
a
High School Junior
Artist Statement: This piece is about the dual reality many survivors live with, what’s seen on the outside and what’s silently endured within. The faceless figure represents how trauma can strip away identity, while the Boldest shows the inner world shaped by pain, vulnerability, and resilience. The chaotic background of repeated words blurs into noise, reflecting how overwhelming and constant the inner dialogue of a survivor can be. The repeated words in different colors show two sides of the story; they blur into noise, reflecting how overwhelming and constant that inner dialogue can be.
Art education helped me find a language when I had none. It gave me a space to process the impact of teen dating violence and sexual assault. Through this piece, I confront that experience and reclaim it not as a weakness, but as a part of my growth. My learning didn’t just happen in school; it happened in healing, creating, and learning to see both sides of my story.
Artist Bio: Mackenzie Diaz-Lick is a creative and passionate student at the Academies at South Mountain who uses art as a way to express identity, resilience, and connection. She has been deeply involved in theater production, serving as a costume designer, house manager, and usher, where she developed skills in collaboration, organization, and creative problem-solving. As president of the Gender Sexuality Alliance, Mackenzie advocates for inclusion and community, using both leadership and art to create spaces where people feel seen and supported. Her work blends storytelling with advocacy, reflecting her belief in the power of creativity to inspire change.