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Graves Congratulates 2018 Congressional Art Competition Winners

Baton Rouge, LA – U.S. Congressman Garret Graves (R-Baton Rouge) congratulated the winners of the 2018 Congressional Art Competition during an awards ceremony at the Arts Council of Greater Baton Rouge last night.

Lauren Diaz, a junior at The Church Academy, was announced as the winner for the 6^th Congressional District for her graphite drawing entitled "The Forgotten Hero," a portrait of a homeless veteran. Her artwork will be showcased in the corridor leading to the U.S. Capitol building for the next year. Diaz is also invited to join other national winners in Washington, DC for the Congressional High School Art Competition award ceremony in June.

"Lauren is an incredibly talented young artist and I am honored that her artwork will represent the 6^th Congressional District in D.C.," said Graves. "We have a great group of students that participated this year and I amazed at the talent. Seeing not just the different styles of art, but the different ways they express themselves, the different materials and techniques- it is absolutely amazing."

Each spring, the Congressional Institute sponsors a nationwide high school visual art competition to recognize and encourage artistic talent in the nation and more specifically in each congressional district. This year's competition included 51 entries from students representing five different schools. A local panel of judges determined the winners.

Renee Chatelain, President/CEO of Arts council of Greater Baton Rouge added, "Congressman Graves' support of this initiative brings important attention to the great artistic talent of our young adults and celebrates all that is great about Louisiana through the eyes of these artists. His involvement encourages art teachers in the region, as well as students and their families, creating community connection and pride of place. The Arts Council of Greater Baton Rouge is grateful for his interest and passion about arts education

While Diaz's first place portrait will hang in the halls of the Capitol, the other winners will be displayed in Congressman Graves' other offices.

The following winners from the 6^th Congressional District were also announced last night:

Second Place Winner

J. Dornier of Lee High School.

Third Place Winner

Pratima Pinnepalli of Lee High School

Fourth Place Winner

Dilia Reyes-Hill of Lee High School

Fifth Place Winner

Miracle Bell of Lee High School

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Julia Aaron of Central High School