Rep. Panetta Announces Winners of the 2022 Congressional Art Competition

May 6, 2022

SALINAS, CA – Today, Congressman Jimmy Panetta (D-Carmel Valley) announced the winners of the 2022 Congressional Art Competition for high school students throughout California's 20th Congressional District. The U.S. House of Representatives sponsors this competition each spring to recognize and honor talented young artists from each congressional district across the country. The scholarship provided to this year's winner was also sponsored by the Santa Cruz and Monterey Art Councils.

"The Central Coast is known for its vibrant art community, and we have a number of talented young student artists from local high schools," said Rep. Panetta. "The Congressional Art Competition gives our students a unique opportunity to showcase their skills and creativity on a larger stage. I'm excited to display the winning piece in the U.S. Capitol for visitors from across the country and around the world to see and enjoy."

The winning entry, "Sacrificing My Father's Hands" was submitted by Michelle Lopez-Rubio, an 11^th grader at Aptos High School. Her piece will be displayed in the United States Capitol Building for one year. Lopez-Rubio and a family member are invited to attend a special Congressional Art Competition ceremony with other young artists from around the country in Washington, D.C., on a date to be determined.

The second place entry, "Vibrant Daylight " was submitted by Eleanor Song, a 10^th grader at Santa Catalina School. Song's piece will be displayed in Congressman Panetta's Washington, D.C. office. The third place entry, " Rose and Butterfly " was submitted by Taddeo Mathews, an 11^th grader at Georgiana Bruce Kirby Preparatory School. Matthews' piece will be displayed in Congressman Panetta's district office.

The competition's honorable mentions include:

Carmen Diaz-Cashatt from Harbor High, 10^th Grade, Title of Entry: Decay is a Good Omen.
Maiwenn Young from Georgiana Bruce Kirby, 10^th Grade, Title of Entry: My Time in Perspective.
Carlos Delezene from Georgianan Bruce Kirby, 10^th Grade, Title of Entry: Dolly.
Jaylin Silveria from San Benito High School, 12^th Grade, Title of Entry: Hidden.
Dean Ballard from Carmel High School, 12^th Grade, Title of Entry: Legacy.

First Place winner: "Sacrificing My Father's Hands" by Michelle Lopez-Rubio

Second Place winner: "Vibrant Daylight" by Eleanor Song

Third Place winner: "Rose and Butterfly" by Taddeo Matthews