Rep. Mike Kelly announces opening of 2026 Congressional Art Competition
BUTLER, PA -- Today, U.S. Representative Mike Kelly (R-PA) announced the launch of the 2026 Congressional Art Competition for high school students across Pennsylvania’s 16th Congressional District.
The annual competition, officially sanctioned by the U.S. House of Representatives, provides high school students the opportunity to showcase their artistic talent on a national stage. The winning artwork from PA-16 will be displayed in the United States Capitol in Washington, D.C., from June 2026 through May 2027.
“I am always impressed by the creativity and talent of students throughout our district,” said Rep. Kelly. “The Congressional Art Competition gives young artists the opportunity to have their work recognized at the national level. I encourage every high school in PA-16 to participate.”
Students in grades 9–12 who live in or attend school in Pennsylvania’s 16th Congressional District are eligible to submit original two-dimensional artwork. Accepted mediums include paintings, drawings, photography, computer-generated art, collages, prints, and mixed media.
The submission deadline for artwork and required entry forms is April 10, 2026.
Students may submit entries individually and attend the district Art Show with their families, or art teachers may submit artwork as a group and attend as a class.
The PA-16 Congressional Art Show and Awards Reception will be held on April 24, 2026. Additional details will be provided to participating students and schools.
To assist schools and students, Rep. Kelly’s office is offering to coordinate artwork pickup from participating schools throughout the district.
Educators and students seeking additional information are encouraged to contact the PA-16 district office at 724-282-2557 or email Julie.Swartfager@mail.house.gov.
WATCH: Rep. Kelly opens the 2026 Congressional Art Competition with a message for students, teachers, and parents.
To learn more about the competition, visit Kelly's website here.