Chicago, IL — Congresswoman Delia Ramirez (IL-03) announced on May 27, 2023 Congressional Art Competition winners. The winning entry for 2023 is “A Hope of Peace” by student artist Wilson Sting Rodriguez Parra of East Leyden High School. According to the artist, the art piece represents his hopes for peace in Colombia.
“I was blown away by all the talent showcased by all the submissions from the young artists of our district. And I am excited to have selected this artwork because of its emotional impact, its commentary on social issues, and aesthetic qualities,” said Congresswoman Ramirez. “It is a powerful piece that draws attention to the struggles of Latines and speaks to the universal human experience of longing for peace in the face of adversity. I am so excited to see it in the Capitol and be inspired and motivated by its truth.”
“The artwork is a representation of my hope. I draw myself with my hands on my chest, my eyes closed, and the light illuminating my face as a representation of the longing for peace in white, surrounded by symbols and colors of Colombia. I show my hope for peace,” describes the young artist Wilson.
Student artist Chloe Renteria of East Leyden High School earned Second Place with the “Surprise!” art piece. The Third Place winner was Katherine Aylen Morales of Pritzker College Prep with her piece titled “Emergence”.
Click HERE for photos of the art pieces.
BACKGROUND
Since 1982, the Congressional Institute has hosted an annual visual art competition for high school students to recognize artistic talent nationwide, attracting almost 700,000 participants nationwide to date. The competition allows students to submit paintings, drawings, collages, photographs, and computer-generated art.
The winning artwork from each congressional district is exhibited in the U.S. Capitol for a year, and the winner receives two round-trip tickets to Washington, D.C., for the annual awards ceremony and launch of the exhibition courtesy of Southwest Airlines.
Original source can be found here.
