L-BF student Sara Swenson receives Honorable Mention in art competition

Each spring, the Congressional Institute sponsors a nationwide high school visual art competition to recognize and encourage artistic talent in the nation and in each congressional district. The competition provides an opportunity for members of Congress to encourage and recognize the artistic talents of their young constituents.

First place went to Tachianna Charpenter, Moose Lake High School, eighth grader, Photography, “Alone” and the second place winner was Gabrielle Berkhoel, Grand Rapids High School, 11th grader, Ink, “Self Portrait.”

Honorable Mentions were awarded to Sara Swenson, Littlefork-Big Falls School, seventh grader, Photography, “Playground Polka Dots” and to Laura Lemke, Grand Rapids High School, ninth grader, Acrylic, “Examination.”

“Congratulations to Tachianna for her winning artwork, as well as Gabrielle and our other Eighth District contestants for showcasing their artistic talents,” said Cravaack.

“I took this picture of my cousin Belle on a marvelous day in Duluth. I believe this picture is dynamic because it shows movement from the wind. I took it in black and white because it shows the shadows and textures better,” said first place winner Charpenter.

The first place artwork will be displayed in the United States Capitol for a year-long “Artistic Discovery” exhibition which highlights the creative genius of young artists from across the nation.  The second place winner’s artwork will be on display in Cravaack’s Main Office in North Branch, and honorable mention awards will be recognized with a Congressional letter of commendation.

Cravaack serves on the Transportation and Infrastructure Committee, where he is vice chair of the Aviation Subcommittee, the Homeland Security Committee, and the Science, Space and Technology Committee. The 8th Congressional District covers 18 counties in northeast Minnesota.