Since she first started reading at the very early age of two, now seven-year-old Milagro has been a naturally curious kid, with some of her favorite subjects including the beach and animals. While her artwork usually takes the form of drawings and chalk art, The Latte Beach Girl was made using a coffee cup, recycled cardboard, old magazines, and newspapers—turning these everyday throwaways into a playful, eco-conscious character.

Kayla and Zayden are the sister-brother duo who brought creativity—and a little sibling rivalry—to the Beach Clean Up & Art Contest. Embers of the Earth was made from cigarette butts and broken glass collected from the beach (with gloves, of course!) and inspired by the idea that even ugly pollution can spark meaningful conversation. When they’re not cleaning up beaches, they enjoy soaking up the sun and staying active.

Milagro might be a “bossy mom” according to her loving daughter, but that doesn’t keep this beach-lover from capturing the joyful energy of the ocean—repurposing everyday waste into eye-catching art. Crafted from recycled cardboard, plastic straws, chip bags, and cut-up water bottles, Mister Seahorse swims through a sea of reused materials, offering a bright reminder of the beauty we can protect when we choose sustainability.

Also known as “La Flaka”, Erika believes that art is a collaboration with God working through the hands of the artist. Her work includes photography, video, theater, and documentary filmmaking. For The Helper Glove, she used the same glove worn while collecting litter and a salvaged picture frame to craft a striking mixed-media piece—reminding us to reflect on our connection to the earth and the divine, turning trash into something sacred.

Inspired by the beach clean-up where she collected discarded bottle caps and shells to repurpose into art, Sophia’s Under the Sea painting depicts healthy sea turtles swimming in a clean, pollution-free sea. This piece reflects the importance of recycling as a simple yet powerful way to take care of the planet. Through this work, she hopes to encourage others to take action and make a difference in their communities.

Camille is a happy and imaginative four-year-old who loves her ballet and tap classes, crafting, and drawing. But her favorite thing of all is playing with her big sister at the beach (and Disneyland too). Seaside Little Land was made using recycled beads, craft flowers, a found bottle cap, and plenty of glitter. It captures a playful underwater world, showcasing her love of the coastline and the natural world through repurposed materials.