Art Competition

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 in this nationwide competition.

Every year, students submit entries to their representative’s office and a panelist of district artists select a winning entry. The winner is recognized both in their district and at an annual awards ceremony in Washington D.C. where the winning artwork is displayed in the U.S. Capitol for one year.

 

2020 Congressional Art Competition Winners for California’s 36th District

First Place – Leah Cosgrove, Xavier College Prep High School

Second Place – Desiree Vasquez, Palo Verde High School

Third Place – Taylor Slagan, Palo Verde High School

 

First Place Winner: To Hug the Earth

This year’s winning artwork for California’s 36th Congressional District comes from Leah Cosgrove titled “To Hug the Earth.” Leah will be beginning her senior year at Xavier College Prep High School. The Washington D.C. Winners Reception has been indefinitely postponed, but Leah will travel to Washington D.C. to have her artwork displayed in the U.S. Capitol once a date is set by the Congressional Institute.

 

Second Place Winner: Family Drawing

The second artwork receiving recognition was composed by Desiree Vasquez of Palo Verde High School. Desiree received second place for her hand-drawn artwork “Family Drawing” and will have her artwork displayed in Rep. Ruiz’s Washington D.C. office.

 

Third Place Winner: Timelost Archer

The third-place artwork was drawn by Taylor Slagan of Palo Verde High School. His art piece “Timelost Archer” will be displayed at the Palm Desert district office of Rep. Ruiz.