Student Artwork Spotlight: Picturing a Better Tomorrow Art Contest

At Orange County Power Authority (OCPA), we believe a cleaner, greener future starts with bold ideas—and our youngest community members have no shortage of them. Our inaugural “Picturing a Better Tomorrow” student art contest invited K–6 students across our member cities to share their vision of a sustainable future through original artwork. The result? Over 100 submissions of colorful, thoughtful, and inspiring pieces that reflect the next generation’s commitment to protecting our planet.

Here are a few of our featured artists:

Roy’s artwork Planting Trees for a Better Tomorrow stood out not just for its creativity—it was one of the only 3D submissions—but for the thoughtful message behind it. In his words, “I pictured a greener Earth growing from our knowledge in books about planting trees.” His piece shows how learning can spark action, creating a cycle where books inspire us to plant trees, and trees give us the paper to keep learning.

In an interview with our team, Roy told us he used watercolor pencils to make his piece “more vibrant” and enjoyed coloring in the Earth the most. When asked what inspired the 3D design, he said he had fun trying the technique for another art contest and wanted to do it again.

Roy’s ideas about sustainability go beyond his years. He wishes people would stop using fire for fun—“because it starts fires”—and believes trees are essential because they “give us oxygen.” If he could plant a tree anywhere, he’d put one right next to his house to build a treehouse where he could read all his favorite books (like Harry Potter).

Roy dreams of becoming an astronaut and a scientist one day. After seeing his imagination in action, we have no doubt he’s on the right track.

Adrita, a second grade student from Irvine, submitted “Preservation,” a soft and hopeful artwork created with colored pencils that illustrated nature in balance.

Josiah, a third grade student from Fullerton, wowed us with “Underwater Hospital,” a detailed piece imagined through pencil, colored pencils, and watercolor paint. Josiah’s vision of a future where health care and ocean conservation intersect truly stood out for its creativity and depth.

Chloe, a fifth grade student from Buena Park, shared “Brightening Tomorrow,” a vibrant depiction of a clean energy future, crafted using watercolor and colored pencil.

To every student who shared their artwork: Thank you! Your creativity and care for the planet inspire us. Select pieces will be displayed in a mural at OCPA’s office, bringing your visions of a better tomorrow to life for all who visit.

Let’s continue building that future—one idea, one action, and one piece of art at a time.

About Orange County Power Authority

The Orange County Power Authority is a not-for-profit public agency that offers clean power at competitive rates, significantly reducing energy-related greenhouse emissions and enabling reinvestment in local energy programs. To learn more, visit www.ocpower.org.