Each spring, high school students from across the state submit their artwork to the annual Congressional Art Competition for a chance to represent their congressional district in the U.S. Capitol with their artistic talents. Sponsored by the Congressional Institute to recognize and encourage artistic talent in each congressional district, more than 650,000 high school students have participated since it began in 1982. Winners are recognized both in their district and at an annual awards ceremony in Washington, D.C. The winning works are displayed for one year at the U.S. Capitol.
Alabama’s 1st Congressional District
Winner: Siobhan Johnson
Piece: “Brotherhood’s Past”
High School: St. Paul’s Episcopal in Mobile, senior
“The Congressional Art Competition is a fantastic way to highlight the artistic talents and achievements of our nation’s students,” said U.S. Rep. Bradley Byrne. “I am especially proud to sponsor the 1st Congressional District Art Competition, and I am always so impressed by the high quality art that our local students are producing.”
Alabama’s 2nd Congressional District
Winner: Kaitlyn Tarver
Piece: “America”
High School: Booker T. Washington Magnet School in Montgomery, senior
“I’m proud to celebrate the artistic abilities of students throughout Alabama, and in particular Kaitlyn and Ashton,” U.S. Rep. Martha Roby said. “These young women have displayed impressive talent, and it’s an honor to join their families and friends in commemorating this momentous occasion. I want to also express my sincerest gratitude to Kaitlyn’s and Ashton’s art teachers, Emily Thomas at Booker T. Washington and Anna Beasley at Houston Academy. Their commitment to helping their students experience the arts truly makes a difference, and I am grateful for their efforts.”
Alabama’s 3rd Congressional District
Winner: Heather Caldwell
Piece: “Love At First Sight”
High School: Handley High School
“Every year, I look forward to being a part of the 3rd Congressional District Art Contest,” said U.S. Rep. Mike Rogers. “We have some really artistic young men and women in East Alabama, and this event is a great way to showcase their talents. I appreciate all the students who participated and the hard work they put in to creating their artwork.”
Alabama’s 4th Congressional District
Winner: Cadley Jackson
Piece: “Reflections on my Childhood”
High School: Guntersville High School, senior
“This is a great event where we get to recognize art students in our district for their great accomplishments,” U.S. Rep. Robert Aderholt said. “Sometimes it is not always well publicized but we hope this brings attention to the great artists who are among us here in our own congressional district.”
Alabama’s 5th Congressional District
Winner: Julie Davidson
Piece: “Waiting for a Cue”
High School: James Clemens High School, senior
U.S. Rep. Mo Brooks said, “I’m so thankful for the support of our community, particularly the Huntsville Museum of Art, and their work to facilitate the Congressional Art Competition each year. A panel of judges juried the 243 pieces of artwork submitted and selected the winner, Ms. Julie Davidson of James Clemens High School. It was a pleasure to recognize Ms. Davidson’s achievements — I look forward to seeing her artwork displayed in the U.S. Capitol throughout the next year representing Alabama’s 5th District. Additionally, I was proud to commend the honorable mentions and thank the art educators who empower these students to succeed. Congratulations to Julie and to all of the honorable mentions, I hope you will continue to excel in your artistic pursuits.”
Alabama’s 6th Congressional District
Winner: Aaron Squires
Piece: “I Am Free Now”
High School: Pelham High School, junior
“I am proud to support education and the young artists that are participating in this competition,” said U.S. Rep. Gary Palmer. “The Birmingham area has a thriving arts community and these young people already are part of it. They will continue to make important contributions in the years to come.”
Alabama’s 7th Congressional District
Winner: Samantha Bearden
Piece: “Discovering Happiness”
High School: Minor High School
“Each year, this competition reflects the extraordinary talent of the students of the 7th Congressional District and I am proud to support them in exploring their artistic talents,” U.S. Rep. Terri Sewell said.
