Art Competition
Deadline for Submissions: May 25, 2020
As we continue to move forward and adjust to the current reality of social distancing the Congressional Art Institute has recognized the importance of art to the students especially during these challenging times. Therefore, the Congressional Art Institute will continue to hold 2020 Congressional Art Competition.
Congressman Bill Foster invites ALL students in grades 9 – 12 to participate in this year’s competition.
The over-all winner of our district's competition will be displayed for one year in the U.S. Capitol. The exhibit in Washington will also include artwork from other contest winners nation-wide.
Art works entered in the contest may be up to 26 inches by 26 inches (including the frame) and may be up to 4 inches in depth. The artwork may be
- Paintings - including oil, acrylics, and watercolor
- Drawings - including pastels, colored pencil, pencil, charcoal, ink, and markers
- Collage
- Prints - including lithographs, silkscreen, and block prints
- Mixed Media
- Computer Generated Art
- Photography
All entries must be an original in concept, design and execution.
Important dates:
- May 20 – May 25, 2020: Drop off period for Congressional Art Competition pieces *By Appointment Only*
- May 25, 2020: Due date for all 2020 Congressional Art Competition entries
- May 28 - June 4, 2020: Artwork will be showcased on Facebook for ‘People’s Choice Award’
- June 5, 2020: Winners will be notified and announced
**Note: Due to social distancing precautions a local reception will not be held, however, The Congressional Art Competition Reception in Washington, DC, will take place on July 22, 2020.
We recognize that many students may not be able to have their teacher sign the student release form due to school closures. If they are unable to do so, they may indicate their teacher's support another way. For instance, when submitting the form, the student may attach an email from an art teacher certifying the artwork's originality.
The Congressional Art Competition began in 1982 to provide an opportunity for members of Congress to encourage and recognize the artistic talents of their young constituents. Since then, over 650,000 high school students have been involved with the nationwide competition. We look forward to your participation.
Submission may be dropped off at the Aurora Office, 2711 E. New York St., Suite 204, Aurora, IL 60502. Contact maria.manzo@mail.house.gov for a drop off appointment.
Can I Participate?
The Competition is open only to high school students who reside in the Illinois 11th Congressional District or who are eligible to attend public high school in that district.
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