U.S. Congressman Harold “Hal” Rogers (KY-05) today announced the winners of the 2011 Congressional Art Competition for Kentucky’s Fifth Congressional District.

The first place artwork, entitled “Brother Returns from War,” was drawn by Emily Tackett, the valedictorian for Breathitt County High School. Emily utilized charcoal on pre-toned paper to recreate her grandmother’s reunion with her brother during World War II. Her art teacher is Paul Hale. Emily is the daughter of Lisa and Jesse Tackett of Jackson, Kentucky.

“I am so impressed by all of the young talented artists who participated in the competition,” said Rogers. “Emily’s artwork will be displayed in the U.S. Capitol for thousands of visitors from across the world to see and I am proud that everyone will know that it came from eastern Kentucky.”

The second place artwork, entitled “Hope” was drawn by Dalton Johnson, a JROTC senior from Harlan County High School. Dalton utilized graphite to draw a little girl with captivating big blue eyes, looking into the light of hope. His art teacher is Rhonda Robinson. Dalton is the son of Nick and Allison Johnson of Harlan, Kentucky.

The third place artwork, entitled “Eager to Learn” was painted by Jeffery Couch, a sophomore from Knott County Central High School. He utilized watercolor to recapture his little sister eagerly watching him paint a flower. His art teacher is Carolyn Gibson. Jeffery is the son of Robin Couch of Kite, Kentucky.

The winning artwork will be displayed in the Cannon Tunnel of the U.S. Capitol Building in June where it will hang alongside artwork from congressional districts across the nation. First place artists are invited to a Congressional Art Competition reception on June 22nd in Washington, D.C. and will receive two complimentary airline tickets to attend.

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 29 years. 

Click here to see top three winners' artwork and the artists. 
 
Rogers has served Kentucky’s 5th Congressional District since 1981.  With a focus on economic development, job creation, fighting illegal drugs and preserving Appalachia’s natural treasures, he has a reputation for listening to his constituents and fighting for the region he represents. For more information visit www.halrogers.house.gov.

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