Pittsburgh, PA –  Every spring, the United States House of Representatives sponsors the Congressional Art Competition for high school students across the nation to compete for national recognition and the opportunity to exhibit their artwork in Congress.
 
The competition, held in congressional districts throughout the country, came to the 18th congressional district this past Saturday when Congressman Murphy hosted his 2012 Congressional Art Competition at The Galleria in Mt. Lebanon.
 
With a gallery of artwork submitted by 32 students from 16 high schools in the district, a panel of judges comprised of local artists in the community awarded the winners on the basis of composition, creativity and artistic skill. After receiving the vote tally and critique from the panel, Rep. Murphy announced Elizabeth Nolin of Bethel Park High School was awarded first place and will have her piece, titled “Hands Study,” on display in the United States Capitol for one year. Ms. Nolin will be invited to join the other winners from across the country in mid-June.
 
The winners of Congressman Murphy's 2012 Congressional Art Competition are:

First Place:      Elizabeth Nolin, Bethel Park High School, Bethel Park
                        “Hands Study”
                        
Second Place: Kevin Saksa, Norwin High School, North Huntingdon
                        “Lighter”
                    
Third Place:    Jennifer DeFazio, Keystone Oaks High School, Dormont
                        “Overcome as One”

Ms. DeFazio also received the People’s Choice Award, which was selected and voted upon by event attendees.