McEachin, Spanberger announce Congressional Art Competition for Central Virginia high school students

The annual Congressional Art Competition – allowing high school students the chance to compete for the chance to have their artwork displayed in the U.S. Capitol for one year – is now accepting applications.

Henrico high school students may submit their entries through the websites of their Congressional representative – Democrat Abigail Spanberger (Seventh District, which includes the western half of the county) or Democrat Donald McEachin (Fourth District, which includes the eastern half).

Each spring, the Congressional Institute sponsors the nationwide high school visual art competition to recognize and encourage artistic talent in the nation and in each congressional district.

Student entries may include paintings, drawings, collages, prints, mixed media, computer-generated art, and photography. Students may submit one piece for consideration.

The deadline to submit a piece in Spanberger’s district is Monday, April 25; submissions may be made online here. The deadline in McEachin’s district is May 2 at 4:30 p.m.; submissions may be made online here.

“I’m continually impressed by the dedication, creativity, and brilliance of Virginia’s students — and the Art Competition submissions from our district reflect their tremendous artistic talents,” said Spanberger. “The student artwork displayed in the halls of our Capitol serves as a testament to our country’s rich cultural diversity. When I walk by, I am proud to see the work of Virginia’s young artists represented in the mosaic. As I look forward to reviewing submissions in the coming weeks, I hope that many among the next generation of artists from the Seventh District will share their favorite masterpieces with us.”

Said McEachin: “Each year, I am thoroughly impressed by the artistic vision and creativity of our students. I am looking forward to seeing what our participants submit this year and helping showcase the talent of our district back in Washington."