Duval Times

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Congressman John Rutherford (FL-05) welcomed Ashvatha Arun, a recent graduate of The Bolles School in Jacksonville, to Washington, D.C., to celebrate her designation as the 2023 Congressional Art Competition winner for Florida’s Fifth Congressional District.

“Each spring, I am honored to host the Congressional Art Competition for high schoolers across my district. Art enhances our culture and life experience, and the art competition allows us to recognize and encourage artistic talents across the United States,” said Congressman Rutherford. “I continue to be impressed by the talent and creativity of Northeast Florida’s high schoolers, and I am proud to show off Ashvatha’s outstanding artwork this coming year in the U.S. Capitol.”

Ashvatha’s painting, titled “Eye of the Era,” was selected from among 77 pieces of art from 13 high schools across Duval and St. Johns counties. “Eye of the Era” will hang on display in the U.S. Capitol Building, now through next spring, to be enjoyed by everyone who visits.

Special recognition also belongs to the following students:

• Second Place: Lars Jendruschewitz for “Spring Sunrise”
• Third Place: So Young Kim for “Mr. Wilson”
• 2023 Honorable Mentions: Kierra Latia Reese for “Fatigued,” Claire Sauter for “Reptile in Repose,” KiYun Casey for “The Train,” and Nicacia White for “World End Girl.”

The Congressional Art Competition was created in 1982 to foster creativity and showcase high school students’ talent. All entries are original in design, concept, and execution in categories such as painting, drawing, print, and more. For those interested in participating in next year’s Congressional Art Competition, click here.

Original source can be found here.