$250 Winner!
Nothing But Air
by Ani Carillo
"Nothing But Air” by Ani Carrillo (13, Del Norte County) addresses the issue of youth access to tobacco through a powerful and engaging written piece. Using a unique style and strong sense of voice, the work captures the mental and emotional weight surrounding the topic. Its thoughtful composition and flow, combined with vivid expression, draw the reader in and hold attention. Overall, the piece effectively raises awareness while leaving a lasting impact through creativity and depth.
$200 Winners!
Breakaway
by Caden Qudrat
“Breakaway” is an original audio piece centered on the dangers of secondhand smoke. Inspired by lessons learned in health class, the artist uses music as a way to share important knowledge and raise awareness. Through a unique and expressive style, the piece conveys the emotional weight of the issue while capturing the listener’s attention. “Breakaway” combines creativity and purpose, using sound to communicate both the risks of secondhand smoke and the importance of making healthier choices.
How Vaping has affected me
by Madi Stewart
How Vaping Has Affected Me” by Madi Stewart (17, Del Norte High School) is a personal and impactful video exploring the environmental and emotional effects of tobacco use. Set along the beach, the project documents a cleanup of cigarette butts and tobacco waste, highlighting the visible impact on the environment. Through honest narration, the artist shares personal experiences with family members who smoke and vape, adding depth and authenticity to the message. The combination of real-world action and storytelling creates a compelling piece that captures attention and raises awareness about both environmental harm and personal consequences.
$175 Winners!
Beyond the smoke
by Molly Perkins
“Beyond The Smoke” by Molly Perkins (18, South Fork High School) is an artwork that examines Big Tobacco’s manipulation and its impact on individuals. Inspired by a desire to encourage quitting smoking, the piece reflects on the realities that exist beyond the immediate appearance of tobacco use. Through a strong visual composition, the artwork emphasizes awareness and the importance of making healthier choices. “Beyond The Smoke” encourages viewers to look past surface-level perceptions and consider the deeper consequences of smoking.
The Rise of Big Cig
by Julian Smith
"The Rise of Big Cig” by Julian Smith (17, Eureka High School) is a written piece that explores Big Tobacco’s manipulation through a creative, comic-inspired lens. Drawing parallels between tobacco companies and classic comic book villains, the work highlights deceptive tactics and schemes used to influence consumers. This imaginative approach makes a serious topic more engaging while emphasizing the calculated nature of tobacco marketing. “The Rise of Big Cig” captures attention with its originality and encourages readers to critically examine the power and influence of Big Tobacco.
$150 Winners!
Addicted
by Colette Anastiacio
“Addicted” by Colette Anastiacio (17, Eureka High School) is a short film that explores the issue of youth access to tobacco and the cycle of addiction that can follow. Inspired by how easily young people can obtain and begin using tobacco products, the film portrays the progression from a single choice to a repeated and harmful habit. Through a compelling visual narrative, the piece captures the emotional weight of addiction while drawing viewers in with its engaging style. “Addicted” effectively raises awareness about the risks of early exposure and the lasting consequences of tobacco use.
Charred
by Reed Bremer
“Charred” by Reed Bremer (17, Casterlin High School) is an artwork that addresses the issue of youth access to tobacco and the lack of awareness about its health effects. Inspired by the idea that many teens underestimate the damage caused by smoking and vaping, the piece highlights the impact on the lungs and overall health. Through a striking visual approach, the artwork captures attention while conveying a serious message about the risks of early tobacco use. “Charred” encourages viewers to think more critically about the consequences of these choices and the importance of prevention.
$125 Winners!
Slow Burn
by Aleah Allender
Aleah Allender, a 17-year-old student from Casterlin High School, created an art piece titled Slow Burn to highlight the long-term dangers of smoking, particularly among youth. By depicting a figure around her own age against a dark background, she emphasizes the vulnerability of young people and the serious consequences of early exposure to cigarettes. The title reflects how smoking can quietly and gradually damage a person’s health over time, often without immediate awareness, encouraging viewers to consider the hidden risks behind the habit.
Big Tobacco Abuse
by Mia Dillon
Mia Dillon, a 14-year-old student from South Fork High School, created an art piece inspired by the influence of a friend and the presence of cigarette butts. Her work reflects on how smoking can impact relationships and everyday environments, using these elements to convey a message about its effects. Through this piece, Mia draws attention to the social and environmental aspects of tobacco use, encouraging viewers to consider its broader impact.
Don't Get Hooked
by Jacson Crowder
Jacson Crowder, a 16-year-old student from Del Norte High School, created an environmental art piece highlighting the impact of smoking and tobacco waste on oceans and marine life. Using actual cigarette butts, he constructed a plush fish filled with plastic to symbolize the pollution caused by tobacco litter. The work draws attention to how discarded smoking materials contribute to environmental damage, particularly in marine ecosystems, and encourages viewers to consider the broader consequences of tobacco waste beyond human health.
$125 Winners!
Stop Vaping, Put it down
by Anaia Benemann & Scarlette Wood
Stop Vaping, Put It Down” by Anaia B. and Scarlette W. (16, Arcata High School) is a video project that highlights the issue of youth access to nicotine products. Drawing from firsthand observations at school, the piece sheds light on how common vaping has become in everyday student spaces and the impact it has on both the learning environment and teen health. Through a direct and engaging approach, the video captures attention while emphasizing the risks to brain development and well-being. The project serves as a strong call to action, encouraging peers to recognize the consequences of vaping and make healthier choices.
WHat world do you choose to live in
by Phaedra Steadman
"What World Do You Choose To Live In” by Phaedra Steadman (17, South Fork High School) is an artwork that explores the environmental impact of tobacco and the importance of individual choice. Inspired by the idea that personal decisions affect both human health and the planet, the piece presents a clear contrast between harmful and healthier paths. Through a thoughtful and visually engaging composition, the artwork encourages viewers to reflect on responsibility and consequence. “What World Do You Choose To Live In” emphasizes awareness and decision-making in protecting both the environment and personal well-being.
Inhaling the illusion
by Yousif Nasri
”Inhaling The Illusion” by Yousif Nasri (16, Del Norte High School) is a written piece that examines Big Tobacco’s manipulation and the misleading messages often presented to consumers. Inspired by the false claims made by tobacco companies, the work explores how these narratives impact individuals and shape their perceptions. Through a thoughtful and engaging approach, the piece highlights the contrast between marketing and reality. “Inhaling The Illusion” encourages readers to question these messages and recognize the influence of deception in tobacco use.
$100 Winners!
Her Second hand
by Josephine Mcintire
Josephine McIntire, a 21-year-old student from College of the Redwoods, created an illustrative artwork inspired by personal experiences being around adults who smoke, including family friends and parents. The piece reflects how tobacco use felt close to home during their upbringing, often placing them near or around people who were smoking. Through this work, Josephine explores the lasting impression of growing up in environments where smoking was present, highlighting how those experiences shape awareness of tobacco’s impact.
Bad Influences
by Mayleona McGruder
Crafted by 17‑year‑old Mayloena McGruder of Zoe Barnum High School, this artwork highlights the need for greater awareness and responsibility. This artwork demonstrates how the artist was motivated by how often people overlook frequently using tobacco products in environemts with youth and how it can negatively influences them.
The vape Man
by Ember Patching
Ember Patching, a 17-year-old student from Del Norte County, created an illustrative character-based artwork inspired by a project idea from their mother. The piece features a character named “Bob,” a personified representation of vaping influence, depicted attempting to entice young people toward addiction. Drawing on their interest in how vaping and smoking products reach and affect youth, Ember’s work highlights concerns about how these substances infiltrate younger audiences. Through this character design, the piece critiques the normalization and targeting of nicotine use among teens.
For Us
by Maryann Rosas
“For Us” by Maryann Rosas (16, Del Norte High School) is a written piece that explores the impact of secondhand smoke through a personal and empathetic lens. Inspired by observations in her community and concern for her family, the work reflects on how smoking affects not only individuals but also those around them—including loved ones and even pets. By imagining the experiences of others, the piece creates a thoughtful and emotional perspective on the issue. “For Us” captures attention through its relatable message and encourages readers to consider the broader consequences of secondhand smoke.
It's Just One
by Sophia Bella Piazza
This artwork centers on a 16‑year‑old student, Sophia Bella Piazza, student at Eureka High School, and draws directly from her personal experiences with tobacco use. This artwork shows a girl being manipulated by the tobacco industry. A businessman’s hand lights her cigarette, symbolizing how Big Tobacco targets and controls users. Her body breaks into pixels to show her fading identity, while tobacco‑altered DNA in the background represents addiction taking over. The piece reflects the artist’s personal struggle with tobacco and the industry’s influence.
Fading World
by Zoey Bachmann
“Fading World” by Zoey Bachman (17, Eureka High School) is a written piece that explores Big Tobacco’s manipulation through the use of personification. By portraying tobacco as a controlling figure, the work highlights the psychological struggle of recognizing harm while feeling unable to break free from addiction. Building on a concept the artist has explored before, the piece creates a vivid and unsettling perspective that draws readers into the experience. “Fading World” effectively captures the emotional weight of manipulation and dependency, encouraging deeper reflection on the influence of tobacco.
Good Poison
by Ari Reynolds
“Good Poison” by Ari Reynolds (16, Eureka High School) is a short film that explores the issue of youth access to tobacco and the influence of advertising. Inspired by frequent exposure to tobacco ads and stories of early addiction, the piece examines how these messages can shape perceptions and behaviors among young people. Through a creative and engaging visual approach, the film captures attention while conveying the hidden dangers behind appealing imagery. “Good Poison” highlights the contrast between marketing and reality, encouraging viewers to think critically about the impact of tobacco on youth.
$75 Winners!
The Smoke is Everywhere
by Emalee Edgins
Emalee Edgins, an 18-year-old student from South Fork High School, created an artwork addressing the growing variety of nicotine and tobacco products available today. Using watercolor, colored pencils, and black pen, the piece visually represents the expanding presence of these products in modern society. Through a mixed-media approach, Emalee highlights concern about how widespread and diverse tobacco and nicotine options have become, encouraging viewers to reflect on their accessibility and impact.
Doom Tree
by Kara Carson
"Doom Tree” by Kara Carson (15, Humboldt County) explores the environmental impact of tobacco through a visually striking and symbolic composition. The piece reflects the hidden damage tobacco causes to nature, using bold color and a unique style to convey a sense of weight and consequence. Created through an intuitive process, the artwork maintains a strong focus on its central theme while capturing attention and evoking thought. The result is a compelling image that highlights both environmental harm and emotional depth.
Don't Let Smoke Define you
by Dakota Gresham
Dakota Gresham, a 15-year-old student at Eureka High School, created an art piece inspired by his mother’s involvement in college studies related to the subject. Using Adobe Express, Dakota developed a work that reflects personal motivation and family influence. The piece highlights how his mother’s educational journey served as inspiration, shaping the creative direction and meaning behind the artwork.
They Lie
by Braden Daniel Padilla
Braden Daniel Padilla, a 17-year-old student from Del Norte High School, created an art piece that exposes the marketing tactics used by Big Tobacco to attract consumers. Inspired by learning about these strategies, his work aims to reveal the underlying intentions behind tobacco advertising, particularly to audiences who may not fully recognize its influence. Through his piece, he encourages viewers to question how these products are promoted and to become more aware of the manipulation behind their appeal.
A slow burn
by Vasilisa C. McCutchan
Created by 15‑year‑old Vasilisa C. McCutchan of Six Rivers Charter High School, the artwork above highlights both environmental concern and a belief in collective responsibility. This artwork reflects on the destruction of forests caused by careless smoking and expresses hope that the environment can still be healed if people commit to change.
$50 Winners!
Teenage Access to drugs
by Isabell Brooks
Isabell Brooks, a 14-year-old student from Six Rivers Charter High School, created an artwork focused on how and why teenagers access vaping products. Her piece explores the pathways through which teens obtain vapes, the environments where access occurs, and potential ways to prevent it. By addressing both causes and solutions, the work aims to raise awareness about youth vaping and encourage discussion around prevention and healthier choices.
Both Sides of the smoke wall
by Brenna Wagner
Brenna Wagner, a 17-year-old student at Del Norte High School, created an art piece inspired by witnessing her classmates fall into vaping due to peer pressure, social expectations, and the search for stress relief. Her work highlights how the desire to fit in or appear “cool” can influence harmful choices among teens. Through this piece, she brings attention to the emotional and social factors that contribute to vaping, encouraging viewers to reflect on its impact and the pressures that drive it.
Brainwashed
by Elizabeth Chivington
Elizabeth Chivington, a 17-year-old student from South Fork High School, created a collage artwork using real cigarette advertisements from the 1980s. Inspired by the constant exposure to tobacco advertising since childhood, her piece critiques how these ads target audiences of all ages and promote harmful products. By assembling and recontextualizing the original advertisements, she draws attention to the unsettling messaging and disturbing details often included in tobacco marketing, encouraging viewers to reconsider the influence and impact of these campaigns.
The smoke reminds me of ashes
by Olivia "Ivy" Perez
“The Smoke Reminds Me Of Ashes” by Olivia “Livy” Perez (15, Eureka High School) is an artwork that explores the issue of youth access to tobacco and its long-term effects. Inspired by personal observations and research into the prevalence and impact of tobacco use, the piece reflects a shift in understanding about the seriousness of addiction and its consequences. Through its visual composition, the artwork conveys a sense of loss and lasting damage associated with tobacco exposure. “The Smoke Reminds Me Of Ashes” encourages viewers to reconsider assumptions and become more aware of the real effects of tobacco use.
Wacky Tabaky
by Toni Venturi Arnett
"Wacky Tabaky” by Toni Venturi Arnett (12, Trillium School) is a written piece that explores the theme of Big Tobacco’s manipulation. Through a creative and engaging approach, the work draws attention to the ways tobacco companies influence perceptions and behaviors. Despite its playful title, the piece addresses a serious issue, encouraging readers to think critically about the messages surrounding tobacco use. “Wacky Tabaky” captures attention with its originality while highlighting the importance of awareness and informed choices.
Mother Nature vs. Tobacco Corporation
by Jocelyn Soderfelt
"Mother Nature vs. Tobacco Corporation” by Jocelyn Soderfelt (16, Six Rivers Charter High School) is a written piece that examines the environmental impact of the tobacco industry. Inspired by a passion for environmental advocacy, the work highlights the damage caused by tobacco production and waste while emphasizing the importance of awareness as a step toward change. Through a creative and engaging narrative, the piece presents the conflict between nature and industry in a compelling way. “Mother Nature vs. Tobacco Corporation” encourages readers to reflect on human impact and consider solutions for protecting the environment.
No More Air Left
by Leila Coleman
“No More Air Left” by Leila Coleman (15, South Fork High School) is an artwork that explores Big Tobacco’s manipulation and the harmful effects of smoking on the lungs. Inspired by the understanding of how tobacco use leads to addiction and long-term health damage, the piece emphasizes the difficulty of breaking free once dependence develops. Through a strong visual concept, the artwork conveys a sense of suffocation and loss associated with prolonged tobacco exposure. “No More Air Left” encourages viewers to recognize the risks of addiction and the importance of protecting lung health.
Stop Youth Access
by Marina Dodge
Marina Dodge, a 16-year-old student from South Fork High School, created an oil pastel artwork inspired by the influence of Big Tobacco on youth in her community. Reflecting on the negative impact she observes around her, her piece aims to highlight the risks and realities associated with tobacco use. Through her work, Marina brings attention to how these influences affect young people and encourages greater awareness of their consequences.
Can You smel the flowers yet
by Chi-Geri
Chi-Geri, a 17-year-old student from Hoopa Valley High School, created an art piece inspired by personal experiences with smoking within her family. Witnessing loved ones struggle with lung-related health issues, the work reflects the real and lasting consequences of tobacco use.
Colorbait
by Mackenzie Coleman
“Colorbait” by Mackenzie Coleman (16, South Fork High School) is an artwork that explores Big Tobacco’s manipulation through advertising techniques aimed at youth. The piece highlights how bright colors and persuasive language are used to make harmful products appear appealing and approachable. Inspired by these marketing strategies, the work visually critiques the way tobacco companies target younger audiences. “Colorbait” draws attention to this manipulation while encouraging viewers to look more critically at the messages behind advertising.
Youth Access Can Stop
by Cylis Munnerlyn
Cylis Munnerlyn, a 15-year-old student from Del Norte High School, created a digital art piece addressing the prevalence of vaping and smoking among youth. Using a drawing app, he designed a graphic image of a teenager holding tobacco as smoke rises and transforms into a monster-like figure placing a hand on the teen’s shoulder. Surrounding quotes reinforce the message of influence and consequence. The work aims to visually represent the dangers of smoking and how it can take hold of young people in subtle but powerful ways.
Hold Your Breathe
by Sophia Burger
"Hold Your Breath” by Sophia Burger (15, South Fork High School) is a sculpture that explores the personal impact of secondhand smoke. Inspired by real-life experiences with asthma triggered by exposure to smoke, the piece presents a powerful visual of a youth affected by the actions of others. The imagery of large adult hands surrounding the figure emphasizes the imbalance of control and the vulnerability of those exposed. Through this expressive and meaningful design, “Hold Your Breath” raises awareness about the health risks of secondhand smoke and its effects on young people.
Below the Lake
by Evie Herrera
Evie Herrera, a 16-year-old student from Arcata High School, created a painted canvas piece that contrasts two possible versions of the world—one impacted by tobacco use and one without it. Inspired by observations of environments littered with cigarettes and vape products compared to cleaner spaces, her work invites viewers to reflect on the consequences of tobacco use. Through this visual comparison, Evie encourages people to consider the kind of world they want to live in and the choices that shape it.
"CIgarettes" An Acrostic Poem
by Daniel Glover
Daniel Glover, an 18-year-old student from South Fork High School, created an art piece focused on communicating the wide-ranging effects and harms of cigarette use. Drawing from his experience in an English class where he has explored poetry, his work emphasizes how smoking impacts not only the individual but also the people around them. The piece serves as a reflection on the broader consequences of tobacco use, encouraging awareness of its physical and social effects.
Propaganda
by Sam Bruebaker
“Propaganda” by Sam Bruebaker (18, South Fork High School) is an artwork that examines Big Tobacco’s manipulation through the lens of advertising. Inspired by viewing tobacco ads, the piece reflects on how messaging and imagery are used to influence consumer behavior. Through a visually engaging approach, the artwork highlights the persuasive techniques behind these campaigns and encourages critical thinking about their impact. “Propaganda” captures attention while shedding light on the power of marketing in shaping perceptions of tobacco use.
Expand Your Vision
by Aiyanna Landeros-Camacho
Aiyanna Camacho, a 15-year-old student from South Fork High School, created an art piece that explores the idea that appearances can be deceiving. Through her work, she aims to show that something visually beautiful can still carry harmful or dangerous qualities, encouraging viewers to look beyond surface-level impressions and think more critically about what they see.
Don't Do it
by Hannah Savio
Hannah Savio, a 17-year-old student from South Fork High School, created an artwork inspired by her personal connection to tobacco use within her family. Using colored pencils, her piece reflects how smoking has been a present part of her life experience and how that influence shaped her perspective. The work serves as a personal reflection on the impact of smoking on families and the emotional awareness it brings.
The tired heart of consumption
by Maple Burns
Maple Burns, a 15-year-old student from Miranda Jr. High, created an art piece inspired by a lifetime of exposure to tobacco advertising and its influence on both individuals and loved ones. Drawing from the impact of television and media, the work explores how smoking can become normalized, leading people to develop a sense of attachment and eventual dependence. The piece reflects the feeling of being trapped in a cycle that is difficult to escape, while also critiquing how corporations' profit from this struggle.
Smoke
by Chloe Thiessen
Smoke” by Chloey Thiessen (16, South Fork High School) is an artwork that explores the effects of secondhand smoke on both people and the environment. Inspired by the wide-reaching impact of tobacco, the piece reflects how smoke extends beyond the individual user to harm others and surrounding spaces. Through its visual composition, the artwork captures attention while conveying a sense of seriousness and consequence. “Smoke” encourages viewers to consider the broader effects of tobacco use and its lasting impact on communities and the environment.
When did the sky turn Gray
by Emee Askay
“When Did the Sky Turn Grey” by Emee Askay (15, Northern United Charter High School) is an artwork that explores the environmental impact of tobacco use and its connection to air quality and community health. Inspired by observations of tobacco addiction and its visible effects in everyday life, the piece reflects a sense of environmental decline and emotional weight. Through its visual expression, the artwork aims to capture what it feels like to live in a community affected by tobacco smoke and pollution. “When Did the Sky Turn Grey” encourages viewers to reflect on the broader consequences of smoking on both people and the environment.
Second hand Smoking
by Martin Navarette
"Second Hand Smoking” by Martin Navarette (17, South Fork High School) is an artwork that addresses the impact of secondhand smoke on individuals and communities. The piece draws attention through its visual presence and highlights the often-overlooked effects of exposure to tobacco smoke. Inspired by its strong initial impression, the work aims to communicate the seriousness of the issue in a direct and accessible way. “Second Hand Smoking” encourages viewers to consider the broader consequences of smoking beyond the individual user.
Let the children breathe
by Stevi Simonsen
““Let The Children Breathe” by Stevi Simonsen (19, College of the Redwoods) is an artwork that highlights the impact of secondhand smoke on children, animals, and the natural environment. Inspired by the idea that outdoor spaces should be safe and healthy for all, the piece emphasizes the importance of clean air for those most vulnerable. Through its visual message, the artwork draws attention to the need for smoke-free environments. “Let The Children Breathe” encourages viewers to consider the shared responsibility of protecting both people and nature from the effects of tobacco smoke.
You take my breathe away
by Kyla May
Kyla May, a 15-year-old student from Zoe Barnum High School, created an art piece examining the manipulative marketing tactics used by Big Tobacco. Focusing on the use of bright colors and candy-like flavors designed to appeal to younger audiences, her work highlights how these strategies can mask the serious health risks of tobacco use. Through this piece, Kyla emphasizes how such marketing can make harmful products seem harmless or appealing, ultimately contributing to long-term consequences. Despite time constraints, she chose to complete and submit her work to help raise awareness and spark conversation about these issues.
Big Impacts of "Little things"
by Lillian Wilson
Lilian Wilson, a 15-year-old student from South Fork High School, created a sculptural artwork focused on the effects of secondhand smoke. Inspired by her experience making papier-mâché birds, she crafted a large papier-mâché cigarette accompanied by small human figures to represent how smoke impacts those nearby. Her piece highlights that even individuals who do not smoke can still face serious consequences, emphasizing the broader reach of tobacco use and its effects on others’ health and daily lives.
Ghost Busters vs. Harmful Vapes, Cigarettes & Tobacco
by Eden Arreguin
Eden Arreguin, a 15-year-old student at South Fork High School, created a painted artwork on canvas that draws inspiration from multiple topics explored in class. Using a combination of paint and pencil sketching, Eden developed a piece that brings together different ideas into a single composition. The work reflects a broad engagement with the themes and a personal effort to thoughtfully represent them through visual art.
Nicotine Avoiders Arcade Game
by Seamus Miles
“Nicotine Avoiders Arcade Game” by Seamus Miles (17, Eureka High School) is a creative artwork that uses a video game concept to explore the effects of secondhand smoke. Inspired by classic arcade platformers, the piece imagines a world where players must avoid nicotine-related hazards, such as falling or thrown cigarettes, to survive. This interactive-style concept presents a serious issue in an engaging and accessible way. “Nicotine Avoiders Arcade Game” captures attention through its originality while encouraging viewers to think about the challenges of avoiding exposure to tobacco in everyday life.
Influences of the wise
by Danika Lee Huff
Danika Lee Huff, a 16-year-old student at Del Norte High School, created an art piece exploring the influence of Big Tobacco companies on young people. The work reflects on how these companies target youth and contrasts this with the awareness of older, “wise” individuals who better understand the impact of such influences. Through this piece, Danika highlights the tension between marketing strategies aimed at younger audiences and the knowledge needed to recognize and resist those pressures.