Each spring, a nationwide high school arts competition is sponsored by the Members of the U.S. House of Representatives. The Congressional Art Competition is an opportunity to recognize and encourage the artistic talent in the nation, as well as in our congressional district. It 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.
The Congressional Art Competition is open to all high school students in the 1st District. The overall 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 nationwide.
Artwork 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. There is no set theme for the competition! Students are encouraged to submit whatever piece they feel best displays their creativity and talent. One submission per student will be accepted. 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. Must be 2-dimensional.
Artwork must adhere to the policy of the House Office Building Commission. In accordance with this policy, exhibits depicting subjects of contemporary political controversy, or a sensationalistic or gruesome nature are not allowed. If you are unsure about whether a piece of artwork is acceptable, contact the Congresswoman’s staff at (425) 485-0085, and we would be happy to help.
Click HERE to view the 2024 Congressional Art Competition Rules and Regulations for Students and Teachers.
Before you submit your art, please take a moment to review the following checklist and ensure
- Artwork is no larger than 26" x 26" x 4" when framed.
- Eye hooks or equivalent are attached at the back of the artwork.
- Student Information and Release Form is attached to the back of the artwork.
- Artwork has a label affixed to the back with the student's Name, Address, Phone Number, Title, Medium, Congressmember's Name, State, and District.
DUE DATE: All Submissions are due by April 19th, 2024 by 4:00PM. Award ceremony and reception to be held during the week of April 22nd, final date TBA.
How to Submit Your Artwork:
- Email a high-quality picture of your art to avery.perreault@mail.house.gov with name, address, phone number, title, medium, Congressmember's name, state, and district. Please make the subject line read: Congressional Art Competition Submission – [Your Name]
- Mail or drop off your art piece: Office of Rep. Suzan DelBene, Re: Art Competition, 450 Central Way Suite 3100, Kirkland, WA, 98033. If needed, coordinate a time with Avery for her to pick up.
If you are planning on dropping off in-person, please call (425)-485-0085 beforehand to coordinate a time when a staff member can be present.
If you have any questions, please contact Avery Perreault at avery.perreault@mail.house.gov or call (425) 485-0085. If you would like more information on the annual Congressional District Art Competition, please visit the Congressional Institute’s website.
Click HERE to complete and print off the Student Information and Release Form.
