SYCAMORE STUDENT ARTIST WINS TRIP TO D.C.

‘Meadow’ painting judged tops in 14th Congressional District;   Geneva, Elburn students named runners-up

BATAVIA – Congressman J. Dennis Hastert on Friday announced that Sycamore High School Senior Danielle Holland has won first place locally in the 2006 Congressional Art Competition, earning her a trip to Washington D.C.

Holland submitted an acyclic landscape painting titled, “Meadow” that was judged best among the 16 entries submitted by high school students from throughout the 14^th Congressional District.

The painting will now be displayed at the U.S. Capitol for one year, along with other winning Congressional District entries from around the country. In addition, Holland and two guests will travel to Washington D.C. for the opening of the exhibit, courtesy of Southwest Airlines.

“This competition encourages young people to explore their artistic talents – and the results speak for themselves,” Hastert said. “Year-after-year, our students produce incredible artwork, and I look forward to having Danielle’s painting at the Capitol to represent our district.”

The local contest is part of “An Artistic Discovery,” an annual competition launched by the U.S. House in 1982 to encourage the artistic talents of young Americans.

Second place in the competition was awarded to Rosary High School Sophomore Allison Kupar, of Geneva, whose photograph entry will be displayed for one year at Hastert’s Batavia office. Third place was awarded to Rosary High School Freshman Kathleen McNally of Elburn for her colored pencil drawing.