WASHINGTON, D.C. — The Congressional Institute welcomed Members of Congress, student artists, and their families to the U.S. Capitol Visitor Center on June 25 for the annual celebration honoring the winners of the 2026 Congressional Art Competition.
The event recognized outstanding artistic achievement by high school students from across the nation and celebrated another successful year for one of Congress’s longest running and most popular student programs. This year, 436 congressional offices participated in the competition, with winning artwork from districts nationwide selected for display in the U.S. Capitol complex.
“The Congressional Art Competition is one of the most inspiring traditions on Capitol Hill, giving young artists the opportunity to share their creativity with the House and with the country,” said Brenda Becker, Chair of the Congressional Institute Board of Directors. “Today’s celebration recognized not only extraordinary artistic talent, but also the dedication of families, educators, and many others who support these young artists.”
The 2026 Congressional Art Competition was co-chaired by Rep. Stephanie Bice (R-OK-05) and Rep. Joseph Morelle (D-NY-25), continuing the bipartisan tradition that has defined the program for more than four decades.
“Each year, the Congressional Art Competition highlights the incredible creativity of young people across America,” said Rep. Stephanie Bice. “It was a privilege to celebrate these talented students and see their work recognized in the Capitol.”
“The students honored today represent the best of the next generation of American artists,” said Rep. Joe Morelle. “Their artwork reflects the diversity, talent, and imagination found in communities across the country, and we were proud to welcome them to Washington.”
This year also marked a new chapter in support for the program. Uber, participating for the first time, provided transportation vouchers to help winners and their families travel in the Washington D.C. area during their visit.
Southwest Airlines continued its longstanding support of the competition by providing round-trip airfare for each winner and a guest, a commitment the airline has maintained since 2002.
“We are especially grateful to Uber and Southwest Airlines whose support helped make the winners’ visit to Washington possible,” Becker said. “Their commitment to this unique program makes it possible for these talented artists to engage with Congress in a uniquely memorable way.”
About the Congressional Art Competition
The Congressional Art Competition, created in 1982, is an officially sanctioned bipartisan event designed to encourage the artistic talents of high school students from across the country as they compete for an opportunity to have their artwork displayed in the heart of the U.S. Capitol. The competition is sponsored annually by each Member of the U.S. House of Representatives and the Congressional Institute.
Each Congressional office hosts its own competition for high school students in their district using its own criteria. Once a winner is selected, their artwork is displayed for 11 months in the U.S. Capitol, where it is enjoyed by Members of Congress, staff, and visitors from around the world. With millions passing by the exhibit each year, it is one of the most-viewed art installations in the country.
For more about the Congressional Art Competition, click here. To find out more about how to enter, click here.
About the Congressional Institute
The Congressional Institute is a not-for-profit organization dedicated to helping Members of Congress better serve their constituents and by fostering greater public understanding of the legislative process.