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WASHINGTON, D.C. – On Wednesday, Congressman Brad Finstad (MN-01) invited high school students from Minnesota’s First Congressional District to participate in the 2024 Congressional Art Competition.

Since 1982, Congress has hosted a nationwide annual art competition that allows high school students from all 50 states to showcase their artistic talent. The contest is open to all high school students (9th – 12th grade) in Minnesota’s First District. The winning piece will be displayed in the U.S. Capitol for one year. Additional winning pieces will be displayed in Congressman Finstad’s Washington, D.C. and district offices.

“The Congressional Art Competition provides a unique opportunity for high school students around the U.S. to be recognized for their skills and artistic talents,” Finstad said in a press release. “Last year, we received so many beautiful submissions from students across southern Minnesota. I am eager to see what our talented students produce this year, and I encourage everyone interested to participate.”

All submitted artwork must be original in concept, design, and execution. Artwork and required forms are due no later than Friday, May 3. Submissions can be delivered to the Rochester office at 2746 Superior Drive NW, Suite 100, Rochester, MN 55901, or the New Ulm office at 110 N. Minnesota St., Suite 5, New Ulm, MN 56073.

Judging is performed by members of the local art community. Further information about the program, including official rules, guidelines, and student release forms for the 2024 competition can be found on Finstad’s website or by calling the Rochester office at 1-507-577-6140.

The first-place winner of last year’s First District Congressional Art Competition was Karlee Wynia from Kasson-Mantorville High School for her piece, “Mabel A Young Herd Leader.”