SOMERSET, Ky. - Today, U.S. Rep. Harold "Hal" Rogers announced the winners of the 2016 Congressional Art Competition for Kentucky's Fifth Congressional District.

The first place winner is Jannah Halbert, a senior at Allen Central High School. Jannah submitted an oil painting entitled, "Isla Paraiso," beautifully depicting an island beach landscape with carefully executed detail and texture. Her art teacher is Kevin Slone and Jannah is the daughter of Wes and Amy Halbert of Martin, Kentucky. 

“The Congressional Art Competition is a great way to highlight talented artists from across the country, and I'm thrilled to have our region represented by such incredible students,” said Rogers. “Jannah's artwork will be featured in the U.S. Capitol for thousands of visitors from across the world to see and I am proud that everyone will know it came from Eastern Kentucky.”

As the winner from our Congressional district, Jannah's artwork will be displayed in the Cannon Tunnel of the U.S. Capitol Building for one year. She will also receive two free airline tickets to attend a national reception in Washington, D.C. this summer. Jannah is also eligible for a college scholarship from the Savannah College of Art and Design. 

The second place artwork, entitled, "Sister In Arms" was submitted by Marlee Miller, a freshman at Knox Central High School. Her graphite drawing features a military service woman from the World War II era, standing in salute with the U.S. Flag in the background. Knox Central art teacher, Molly Shields encouraged her participation. Marlee's parents are Becky Carr and Kevin Miller. 

The third place winner is Payton Martin, a freshman at Prestonsburg High School. His pencil drawing features a portrait of pop-singer, Ariana Grande. His art teacher is Maggie Robinette and his parents are Danny and Georgia Martin of Prestonsburg. 

All of the artists will receive a Congressional Certificate of Recognition and a letter from Congressman Rogers for their participation. 

The Congressional Art Competition, sponsored by the Congressional Institute, was initiated by Congress in 1982 to provide an opportunity for members of Congress to encourage and recognize the artistic talents of young people living in their districts. More than 650,000 students have participated in the competition over the last 30 years. For information about the annual competition, visit halrogers.house.gov. 

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