Dear Neighbor,

As we all continue to stay home and do our best to keep ourselves and others healthy, I'd like to take a moment to invite high school students in our community to participate in the 2020 Congressional Art Competition. 

The purpose of this competition is to offer high school students an opportunity to share their talents and be recognized even in difficult times. Students do not need to create artwork specifically for this competition – they can submit any piece from their portfolio.  Paintings, photographs, drawings, sculptures, are just some of the pieces of artwork most commonly submitted. Feel free to think outside the box for this year’s entries!

As we move forward with this year’s congressional art competition, we have made several changes that will allow students to participate while also continuing to practice social distancing.   

Below, are further details about how to participate. If you have any questions or concerns, or if you need assistance, please do not hesitate to call either of my offices at (703) 256-3071 or (571) 408-4407.

How to enter:

• Visit my website for details and the application package. Note that a signature from an art teacher is NOT required. 

• Submit entries to: ConnollyArtComp@gmail.com  Each student can submit a maximum of two pieces.
  
  
• Each email submission should contain 3 files or attachments – a photograph of the artwork, the completed application, and a detailed description of the artwork, explaining the concept, technique, media used, size, and any other information that is relevant to judgement.  You may also add up to two extra photos showing details of your creation.

• The files should be named as follows:
  
  
  • Artwork: lastname_firstname_schoolname_nameofpiece
  • Application: lastname_firstname_schoolname_app
  • Description: lastname_firstname_schoolname_description

Entries are due Friday, May 22, 2020.

In past years, artwork was exhibited at the Workhouse Arts Center in Lorton, Virginia and winners were announced at a public reception there. This year, due to the cancellation of all exhibits at the Workhouse and the need to prioritize the health of all, winners will be announced on social media platforms.

The winning piece will be displayed at the U.S. Capitol for one year; Second place entry will be exhibited at the Workhouse Arts Gallery for a year, and with the permission of the artists, additional high-ranking pieces will be displayed in my Capitol Hill and district offices.

Individual arrangements will be made for the collection of the Best in Show piece to be transported to DC. Only the winning piece will be required to meet the established framing guidelines.  

Gerald E. Connolly