Guthrie announces winners of 2026 congressional art competition
Entries were judged by art professionals and college and university professors from across the district.
BOWLING GREEN, Ky. — Brett Guthrie announced the winners of the 2026 Congressional Art Competition during an awards ceremony held on the campus of Barren County High School.
The annual competition highlights artwork from high school students across Kentucky’s Second Congressional District, offering young artists the opportunity to have their work displayed at the U.S. Capitol.
“Every year, I look forward to seeing the creativity of our young people expressed in the submissions for the Congressional Art Competition – this year was no different,” Guthrie said. “It was an honor to visit with these extraordinarily talented students, their families, teachers, and friends to celebrate their incredible accomplishments.”
Submitted artwork from the 2026 Congressional Art Competition, including top winners: Tristan Sweeney, Midnight Masquerade (1st place); Blake Newton, The Space Between (2nd place); Ashley Banet, Aspire to be a Vulture (3rd place); and Danika Brown, Christmas Truce (Facebook favorite). Courtesy of Congressman Brett Guthrie's office.
The event brought together students, families, educators and community members to recognize the artistic achievements of participants and showcase their work.
Entries were judged by art professionals and college and university professors from across the district.
The top honor, Overall First Place, will be displayed in the U.S. Capitol for one year. Second- and third-place entries, along with the “Facebook Favorite,” will be showcased in Guthrie’s congressional offices.
Guthrie said he looks forward to seeing the winning pieces displayed and praised the students for their talent and dedication, adding that he believes they have bright futures ahead.
“I know that all of these artists have bright futures ahead, and I look forward to seeing our winning submissions proudly displayed on the walls of the U.S. Capitol and my offices. Great work!” Guthrie said.
View all submitted artwork here.
