The Congressional Arts Caucus, a group of 160 representatives who work to promote cultural activities, last week announced the establishment of a new national art competition for high-school students.
‘Artistic Discovery’
Called “An Artistic Discovery,” the competition is designed to recognize and encourage talented young artists facing a difficult economic climate, according to a caucus spokesman. It will be coordinated by members of the U.S. House of Representatives and conducted in each Congressional district “at the discretion of each member, " and at no expense to the federal government.
So far, at least 40 members of the House have agreed to participate, according to the spokesman. The local contests may be coordinated through local arts organizations and the schools or by interested constituents, the staff member said.
The competition will culminate in an exhibit this summer in the U.S. Capitol; each participating district will be represented by one winning entry.
Commitment Renewed
“This competition renews our commitment to the next generation,” said House Speaker Thomas P. O’Neill, Democrat of Massachusetts, one of several Congressmen who announced the program.
The guidelines for the contest are as follows:
The competition will be open only to high-school students.
The competition will be conducted at no expense to the federal government.
Artwork must be two-dimensional, no larger than 30 inches by 30 inches (unframed).
Only paintings, drawings, collages, and prints are eligible.
Each participating Congressman is responsible for framing and transporting the winning entry back to Washington, D.C., at no expense to the federal government.
The final decision regarding suitability for exhibition in the Capitol will be made by a panel of qualified persons chaired by the Architect of the Capitol.
Judged Locally
Entries must be judged locally by May 31. Winning entries from each district must be in Washington by June 15.
The Congressional Arts Caucus is a bipartisan organization of members of the U.S. House of Representatives who are concerned about the arts. The caucus keeps members of Congress informed on issues and legislation that affect both the fine and lively arts. The organization was formed in December of 1980, and now has members from 40 states.--S.W.
