Washington, D.C. - Today, Congresswoman Laurel Lee (FL-15) announced that the 2026 Congressional Art Competition is officially open for all high school students who live in Florida's 15th District. The Congressional Art Competition is a nationwide contest to highlight talented young artists from high schools across the country.

Each spring, the Congressional Institute sponsors a nationwide high school visual art competition to recognize and encourage artistic talent in the nation and in each congressional district. Since the Artistic Discovery competition began in 1982, more than 650,000 high school students have participated. Students submit entries to their representative's office, and panels of district artists select the winning entries. Winners are recognized both in their district and at an annual awards ceremony in Washington, D.C. The winning works are displayed for one year at the U.S. Capitol.

"I am thrilled to announce this year's Congressional Art Competition, which is a wonderful opportunity for talented young artists to express themselves and uncover their creativity," said Rep. Laurel Lee. "I encourage all high school students to put their ingenuity to the test and submit their original artwork. I look forward to seeing all the talent our students have for this year's competition!"

The Congressional Art Competition is now open, and all art must be submitted by March 31st, 2026. The winner will be selected by a panel of judges and will receive a Congressional Recognition, have their artwork displayed in the United States Capitol in Washington, D.C., and be featured on the Congressional Art Competition website for one year. Winning students will also be invited to an awards ceremony on Capitol Hill, to be announced later.

For more information about the Congressional Art Competition, submission criteria, and deadlines, please visit Congresswoman Laurel Lee's websiteor contact Cameran Isler at [email protected]or (813) 393-5077.