Each spring since 1982, the US Congress sponsors a nationwide high school visual arts competition to encourage and recognize artistic talent in each Congressional district. The competition, organized by the Congressional Institute, aims to provide a platform for young artists to showcase their work and gain recognition. The contest has become an integral part of the legislative process, fostering a sense of community and celebrating the diversity of artistic expression in the country. The event was hosted by Rep. Ed Case (Hawai‘i – First District) at Bishop Museum, where entries from eight schools throughout his district were on public display. The competition drew in twenty-three art pieces from talented students, each striving to outdo the others with their unique style and creativity. The judges, comprised of experts in the field, had a challenging task ahead of them, as they had to select the winners from a diverse pool of contestants. The winner of the first place award was May Shiraishi, a Grade 9 student from Hawai‘i Baptist Academy. Her artwork, titled “Beauty Amidst the Debris,” is a captivating soft pastel, plastic debris, and acrylic paint piece that showcases her remarkable artistic talent. Shiraishi and her guest will receive a round-trip ticket on Southwest Airlines to attend the National Awards Competition in Washington, D.C., along with other exciting prizes. Her artwork will also be displayed in the US Capitol for one year, serving as a representation of Hawai‘i’s 1st Congressional District. May Shiraishi’s artwork, “Beauty Amidst the Debris,” is a powerful commentary on the environmental issues that affect our planet. By incorporating plastic debris into her piece, Shiraishi highlights the importance of sustainability and the need for us to take care of our environment. Her artwork is a testament to her creativity and dedication to social causes. The second-place winner was Rai Angelo Santos, a Grade 10 student from Farrington High School. His artwork, titled “Mother of Three,” is a stunning photography piece that showcases his exceptional skill in capturing moments and telling stories through images. Santos will have his image displayed in the Washington, D.C. Office of Congressman Case for one year, along with a certificate of achievement. The third-place winner was Deinalyn Theodore, a Grade 11 student from Farrington High School. Her artwork, titled “Woven in Me,” is a captivating photography piece that explores the theme of self-discovery and personal growth. Theodore will have her image displayed in the District Office of Congressman Case in downtown Honolulu for one year, along with a certificate of achievement. Honorable mentions were given to Janelle De Castro, a Grade 12 student from Farrington High School, for her outstanding artwork, titled “Wants and Needs.” De Castro’s photography piece showcases her exceptional skill in capturing moments and telling stories through images. The judges for the competition were comprised of esteemed experts in the field, including Meleanna Aluli Meyer and Zoe Liu. Both artists are highly respected for their contributions to the world of art and education. Meleanna Aluli Meyer is an acclaimed artist, educator, and cultural advocate who has been recognized with numerous awards for her work. She is known for her dedication to preserving Hawaiian art, education, and social justice. Her artwork is deeply rooted in Hawaiian values and is dedicated to empowering communities through art and culture. Zoe Liu is a Hong Kong-born artist based in Honolulu, Hawai‘i. She is known for her evocative works exploring education, identity, and spiritual growth. Liu is a graduate of the University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa with top honors in Drawing and Digital Imaging. She is also the founder of Art Tent Studio and a dedicated teaching artist at institutions such as the Honolulu Museum of Art School and the Hawai‘i State Art Museum. Liu’s artwork delves into existential themes and reflects her meditative, teaching-informed practice. The Congressional Art Competition is an annual event that celebrates the artistic talents of high school students across the country. The competition is an excellent opportunity for young artists to showcase their work, gain recognition, and connect with their peers and the wider community. By sponsoring this event, members of Congress demonstrate their commitment to supporting the arts and fostering creativity in the next generation of leaders. US Rep. Ed Case was honored to host the event and recognize the talented students who participated in the competition. He praised the contestants for their exceptional work and the judges for their expertise and dedication to the arts. Case also expressed his pride in showcasing the winners’ work in the US Capitol and his congressional offices, highlighting the importance of celebrating artistic expression and creativity in our country’s diverse communities. The winners of the 2025 US Congressional Art Competition are a testament to the artistic talents and dedication of high school students across the country. They demonstrate the power of art to inspire, educate, and connect people. As we move forward, it is essential to continue supporting and celebrating the arts, fostering creativity and innovation in our communities, and recognizing the exceptional work of talented young artists like May Shiraishi, Rai Angelo Santos, and Deinalyn Theodore.
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