Local youth recently unveiled original artwork in San Diego International Airport’s Terminal 2.
The new artwork was part of the DesignAHEAD program, in which about 75 students from three different San Diego-based educational institutions participated. Students were tasked with a real-world design challenge faced in an airport environment. 
The resulting student conceptual projects range from inventive monument signs that might welcome travelers to SAN, to imaginative architectural models for a new terminal.
At a recent airport press conference, youthful designers discussed their inspiration and the creative process behind their airport artwork, while guiding a tour of the unique exhibition. 
DesignAHEAD created a prototype for an immersive seating, rest and wellness experience around the theme of “Welcome to San Diego.” Their work is largely inspired by the rich diversity of cultures in the region.
“I created this sculptural piece titled The Tuna Wall, which serves as a seating element for airport travelers hoping to have a more tranquil experience, while also enjoying an aesthetically pleasing reflection on San Diego’s history,” said DesignAHEAD youth designer 15-year-old Julius Joplin, a Mar Vista High School sophomore. “It was inspired by my love for fishing, the ocean, and my heritage as the product of Sicilian immigrants to America.”
Joplin said he and teammate Esteban “spent many hours at A Reason to Survive (ARTS), refining the concept and turning it into a sculptural piece.” 
Founded in 2001, ARTS uses creativity as a tool to improve the lives of youth.
Joplin described himself as an “analog person (focusing on) raw materials and a close connection to nature. I relate to what is real and not over-produced, so my work reflects that.”
But Joplin admitted, “I was ready to explore 3D modeling and new technology.” 
Concerning his project, Joplin said, “It would be incredible if this became part of a permanent space in the airport. But I am really just enjoying the experience as part of my development as an artist. The exhibit will continue for several months, so I feel honored to be a part of it.”
Of what he got out of the experience, Joplin said, “I learned quite a lot about meeting public standards and expectations … I learned the importance of diplomacy in groups, and to work with a flexible outlook. …There is a huge difference in creating work for private or personal means versus for a public space.”
Added Joplin, “I was really happy to be a part of an institution like ARTS that truly supported young artists by offering all the materials, space and knowledge required to pursue the field with integrity. It actually gave me more faith in my community to see there were individuals dedicated to making the arts a priority in our lives.”
ARTS and the San Diego International Airport are committed to developing the next generation of innovators in the region. The DesignAHEAD program is central to achieving this goal. Through the experience, youth get a firsthand look at career pathways in art, design, transportation, and tourism.
In operation since 1928, the airport celebrated more than 90 years of service to the San Diego region in 2018.