Oceanside, CA — Oceanside High School sophomore Leah Beaudet has been recognized as a top ten finalist in the Smithsonian’s National Portrait Gallery 2025 Teen Portrait Competition for her self-portrait, His Favorite Role Model, a striking piece inspired by the film American Psycho.
Leah created the photograph in her bathroom. Through bold composition and intentional self-representation, her work reflects a thoughtful approach to storytelling and visual expression.
The museum received more than 1,100 entries from students in 48 states, Guam, Puerto Rico, and Washington, D.C. Submissions were reviewed by the Teen Museum Council—a group of high school students from Washington, D.C., Maryland, and Virginia who explore museum careers while building community through youth-centered programming.
All finalist photographs, including Leah’s, are featured in a video display at the Smithsonian’s National Portrait Gallery. The exhibition will run through August.
Oceanside Unified School District is incredibly proud of Leah for this national recognition. This achievement highlights her creativity, talent, and artistic voice.
