U.S. Representative Mike Kelly (R-PA) has announced the opening of the 2026 Congressional Art Competition for high school students in Pennsylvania’s 16th Congressional District. The competition, an annual event authorized by the U.S. House of Representatives, allows students to present their artwork at a national level.
The winning piece 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.”
Eligible participants are students in grades 9 through 12 who either live or attend school within the district. They may submit original two-dimensional works such as paintings, drawings, photography, computer-generated art, collages, prints, and mixed media.
Artwork submissions and entry forms must be turned in by April 10, 2026. Students can enter individually and attend the district Art Show with family members or submit as a group through their art teachers and attend as a class.
An awards reception and art show for PA-16 will take place on April 24, 2026. Further information will be provided to those participating.
Rep. Kelly’s office is also offering to help schools coordinate pickup of student artwork throughout the district.
For more details about participation or submission guidelines, educators and students can contact the PA-16 district office at 724-282-2557 or email Julie.Swartfager@mail.house.gov.
Mike Kelly has served as representative for Pennsylvania’s 16th District since replacing Kathy Dahlkemper in Congress in 2011 (https://bioguide.congress.gov/search/bio/K000376). He was born in Pittsburgh in 1948 and currently resides in Butler. Kelly graduated from the University of Notre Dame with a bachelor’s degree in 1970.
More information about this year’s competition is available on Rep. Kelly’s website.
