The OC Register recently announced the semifinalists for Artist of the Year, with 10 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, 108 semifinalists were chosen by a panel of arts teachers from among 888 nominees based on applications, performance videos, art portfolios, film samples and artistic résumés. The seven disciplines are further divided into specialties and divisions. This year, with fewer nominees and fewer semifinalist spots, the selection process became even more competitive, further highlighting the merits of our students and IUSD’s strong commitment to arts education.
As a part of the semifinals process, 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 21 finalists will be identified, three in each discipline. From there, one student from each discipline, seven in total, will be named as a 2026 Artist of the Year, the top honor for this program. The finalists and Artists of the Year will be announced on May 13.
2026 Artist of the Year Semifinalists
Theater
Helen Han, senior, University High School
Instrumental Music
Naomi Gesk, senior, University High School
Instrument: HarpGeorge Xie, senior, Northwood High School
Instrument: PianoSean Yu, senior, Northwood High School
Instrument: Clarinet
Vocal Music
Chloe Grace Chen, senior, Portola High School
Giuliana Torquato, junior, University High School
Film & TV
Helen Han, senior, University High School
Fine Arts
Paris Sharp, junior, Portola High School
Katelyn Wong, junior, Portola High School
Junting Zhang, junior, Portola High School
Media Arts
Kai Fishburn, senior, Portola High School