LAKELAND, FL—Yesterday, Rep. Scott Franklin (FL-18) announced the winners of the 2024 Congressional Art Competition during a ceremony held at Polk Museum of Art.
“I’m pleased our office received a record-number of entries from across FL-18 this year,” Rep. Franklin said. “The competition doesn’t just showcase local talent, it provides an outlet for budding artists to pursue a passion and hone a skill, critical steps in maturing into successful adults. I applaud each student-artist who participated and the art teachers and families who support their creativity.”
The 2024 Congressional Art Competition theme was “Freedom is Not Free,” which recognizes our brave veterans and servicemembers. Students were invited to capture and portray the service and sacrifice made by our nation’s heroes and their families.
The Congressional Art Competition began in 1982 as an opportunity for Members of Congress to showcase the talents of high school-age artists across America. The winning artwork from each participating Congressional district is displayed in the U.S. Capitol for one year. The Second-place finisher will be showcased in Rep. Franklin’s D.C. office, while the third-place piece will hang in the local District office.
2024 Art Competition Award Recipients:
1st Place Best of Show: “Memory,” by Marina Barrientos-Allende, Junior at Harrison School for the Arts
2nd Place: “Freedom,” by Layla Sierra, Freshman at Harrison School for the Arts
3rd Place: “Breaking Through to Freedom,” Mariyah Grant, Junior at Harrison School for the Arts
Honorable Mentions:
“No Man Left Behind,” by Erika Maya Lugo, Freshman at Okeechobee Freshman Campus,
“Memories of Freedom,” by Andrea Mayna, Junior at Harrison School for the Arts
“Americana,” by Sydney Devoe, Sophomore at Harrison School for the Arts
“Guiding Light,” by Madison Finder, Sophomore at Harrison School for the Arts
“Heritage of Service,” by Evelyn Hoffert, Junior at Harrison of School for the Arts
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