Lauren Foong (12) is turning her passion for art into publishing a student-made magazine, “Breakdown.” According to Foong, the publication opens doors for Dos Pueblos High School students by creating a platform where their artwork can be showcased.

“Basically, it’s a collection of all the works of anyone who submits to the magazine,” Foong said. “It’s a place for artists that can, year-round, see the works of other artists.”

Foong’s initial vision was simple: create a platform that would allow her and a few friends to view each other’s art in one place.

“I just thought it would be a nice way for my friends and I to see what each other makes,” Foong said. “And then I thought, ‘Why not make it bigger?’”

Her decision to expand “Breakdown” came after noticing a lack of art-centered spaces at DPHS where students could share their work.

“I noticed that there weren’t many places for people to show off their work at DP, other than a library show and one page in the yearbook,” Foong said. “That was my main inspiration.”

The first edition debuted on Nov. 11, and Foong plans to publish new volumes seasonally, giving student artists opportunities throughout the year to showcase their art.

“Volume one was summer, and then the next one’s gonna be winter,” Foong said. “I’m probably gonna aim for three, as long as spring doesn’t get too rowdy.”

As the deadline approaches for the second edition, Foong encourages students to submit their work by the upcoming Dec. 20 deadline, and welcomes students of all art media to submit here.

“I think the only thing I’ve really loved is that anyone can join at any skill level,” Foong stated. “I know, since most of my friends are seniors, they’re very skilled, but anyone can join, and what I really want is for everyone to join.”

While expanding her magazine, Foong said she’s learned the importance of collaborating with people who share the same level of dedication.

“I think that when you’re starting up a project like this, it’s very important that you only have people that are extremely motivated to do it,” Foong said. “And that you know exactly what you need to do, or else you’re waiting on people to decide what they need to do if they have time.”

For those interested in purchasing “Breakdown,” all sale updates and other announcements will be available on the magazine’s Instagram account @breakdown_magazine_.