An Irving ISD student is being recognized on a global stage for her artistic excellence.
MacArthur High School senior Isabella Earl has been selected for the 2025 AP Art and Design Exhibit, a prestigious showcase featuring just 51 student portfolios worldwide chosen from more than 82,000 submissions. Earl is one of only two students from Texas represented in this year’s exhibit.
This places her work among the most exceptional AP Art portfolios in the world.
“Isabella’s selection for the exhibit is a moment of tremendous pride for MacArthur High School,” says MacArthur High School Principal Victoria Youngblood-Baldwin. “Being recognized on a global stage affirms not only Isabella’s achievement, but also the rigor, creativity and instructional excellence of our AP Art and Design program.”
The AP Art and Design Exhibit highlights inquiry-based student work rooted in curiosity and ideas that reflect their own perspectives of the world.
Last year’s exhibit drew more than 250,000 views worldwide.
MacArthur High School’s Visual Arts Lead Teacher, Marci Lee, said Earl’s work reflects a rare balance of complexity and accessibility.
“Isabella has always had a unique way of seeing the world and an equally unique way of translating that perspective into her artwork,” says Lee. “This recognition feels long overdue, especially considering how many of our students are already thriving in creative fields.”
For Earl, the honor was initially unreal.
“I didn’t realize how big of a deal it was at first,” she says. “It really helped because I lost state last year with what I considered to be one of the best pieces I ever made. I wasn’t able to win out of Texas, but knowing that I was able to win out of the world, it definitely elevated my confidence.”
Earl credits the AP Art and Design course with helping her grow not only as an artist, but as a planner and a problem-solver – the same skills she plans to carry into college as she continues pursuing art and business studies.
Principal Youngblood-Baldwin hopes Earl’s achievement sends a powerful message to current and future students.
“I hope this shows our students that your passion matters, your voice is valued and excellence is within reach,” she says. “Isabella’s success shows what is possible when students are supported by dedicated teachers, strong programs and a school community that believes in their potential.”
The College Board will honor Earl and other featured students during the 2025 AP Art and Design Exhibit Opening Night Celebration. The live virtual event will recognize both student artists and the educators who supported their artistic journeys.
The event will take place on Thursday, January 15, at 6 PM. Educators, students, families and community members are invited to attend. Registration is available online.
