Smith Announces 2011 Congressional Art Competition Winners

March 8, 2011: First Place to Hang in U.S. Capitol, Others to Hang in Smith's Offices WASHINGTON, DC- Congressman Adrian Smith (R-NE) today announced the winning artists of the 2011 Congressional Art Competition: An Artistic Discovery. Smith worked with the Nebraska Art Teachers Association to coordinate the competition. The first place artwork will be displayed in the U.S. Capitol in Washington, D.C. Smith will display the runners-up in his Washington, D.C. and Third District offices. "The talent of Nebraska's young artists is remarkable, and I am proud of both the students and their teachers for these accomplishments. I look forward to showcasing their artwork in the U.S. Capitol and my offices during the coming year," Smith said. First Place: Michaela Schlesinger"Comfort in Chaos" - Charcoal on Stained Paper Blue Hill High School Michaela's work will be displayed in the U.S. Capitol for one year. Michaela is the student of Christine Lockhart-Brown. Second Place: Morgan Ockinga"Joining of Souls" - Oil Pastel Blue Hill High School Morgan's work will be displayed in Smith's Washington, D.C. Office.Morgan is the student of Christine Lockhart-Brown. Third Place: Hunter Ellis"Hawaii" - Prisma color Holdrege High School Hunter's work will be displayed in Smith's Grand Island Office. Hunter is the student of Christy Kosmicki. Fourth Place: Cheyeanne Griffis"Random Thoughts" - Mixed Media Blue Hill High School Cheyeanne's work will be displayed in Smith's Scottsbluff Office. Cheyeanne is the student of Christine Lockhart-Brown. The Congressional Arts Caucus annually sponsors the Congressional Arts Competition as a competition for high school students from all fifty states, the District of Columbia, and U.S. territories. NOTE: Images of the artwork are available upon request.