El Paso, Mar 24 - Click here to view photos from today's event on Congressman Reyes Flickr page.

Today, Congressman Silvestre Reyes (D-TX) announced the winner of the 2012 Congressional Art Competition for the 16th Congressional district of Texas.  The entry, 'Kiana' by Francisco Espino, a junior from Hanks High School, was selected as the 2012 winner of the Congressional Art Competition.  

Today, Espino was recognized at the El Paso County Student Art Awards ceremony at Crockett Elementary School for being named the 2012 Congressional Art winner.  EPISD, YISD, SISD, and El Paso area private school students were also recognized at today’s ceremony for their participation in the contest.  

“My little sister, Kiana, was my inspiration for this painting because we share a strong bond and I love her very much," said Espino. "This is by far my biggest achievement so far and I'm very proud because I have the opportunity to represent El Paso in this competition.”

“The Congressional Art Competition encourages artistic creativity among high school students and recognizes their talents and achievements,” said Congressman Reyes. “Francisco is a shining example of the exceptional talent we have in El Paso.  I'm proud of him and all the high school student artists who entered this year's competition.  I congratulate Francisco for his work, and look forward to his continued success in the future."

Each spring, the Congressional Institute sponsors a nationwide high school visual art competition to recognize and encourage artistic talent in each congressional district.  Students submit entries to their representative’s office, and panels select the winning entries, which are then displayed for one year at the U.S. Capitol in Washington, D.C. Espino will receive two round-trip tickets to Washington, D.C. compliments of Southwest Airlines.

For more information about the Congressional Art Competition visit Congressman Reyes website at www.reyes.house.gov.