Press Releases

Yesterday, Congressman Rick W. Allen (GA-12) recognized the winners of the 2026 Congressional Art Competition during a special reception held at his Augusta office. Members of Congress sponsor this competition each spring, challenging students from across the nation to produce an original artwork depicting life in their home district. This year's competition drew participants from across Georgia’s 12th District, whose submissions were scored by a panel of judges.

The first-place winner's artwork will be displayed in the U.S. Capitol for one full year. Other finalists will have their work displayed in one of Congressman Allen's district offices.

Following last night's reception, Congressman Allen issued the statement below:

“I look forward to the Congressional Art Competition every year as the gifted young artists who call Georgia-12 home put their artistic talents on full display. It is a privilege and a blessing to spend time with these students, parents, and teachers, to celebrate their achievements and dedication. I am eager to showcase this beautiful artwork in the U.S. Capitol and my district offices for the next year."

First Place: Kaiden Oliver, from Davidson Fine Arts, with his piece: "Southern Bell"

First Runner-Up: Arianna Brunk, from Columbia Virtual Academy, with her piece: "Lady in Red"

Second Runner-Up: Taylor Tankersley, from Davidson Fine Arts, with her piece: "Soul of Augusta"

Third Runner-Up and People's Choice Award Winner: Nidhi Patel, from Lakeside High School, with her piece: "The Ocean is not Blue"