Bishop Announces Winners of 2026 Congressional Art Competition

U.S. Rep. Sanford D. Bishop Jr., D-Ga., hosted a reception Saturday at the Albany Museum of Art to honor winners of the 2026 Congressional Art Competition from Georgia’s 2nd Congressional District.

The annual competition showcases the artistic talents of high school students nationwide. The first-place entry will be displayed for one year in the underground walkway connecting the Cannon House Office Building and the U.S. Capitol, where it will be viewed by thousands of visitors.

“I am happy that this competition brought together so many young artists,” Bishop said. “Their work adds to the rich fabric of our community, and I am grateful for our schools, art faculties, community art organizations, museums, parents and others who play a crucial role in nurturing their talent and success.”

Queasia Arnold, a 12th-grade student at Westover High School in Albany, earned first place for her piece titled “Chin Up.”

Second place went to Brianna Edward, an 11th-grade student at Thomasville High School in Thomasville, for her work “Moving Forward.”

Makayla Bailey, an 11th-grade student at Monroe High School in Albany, received third place for her piece “Rooted in Remembrance.”

An honorable mention was awarded to Jemiah Hall of Dougherty Comprehensive High School in Albany for the artwork “Soul of the Orchid.”

The Congressional Art Competition, sponsored by the Congressional Institute, was established in 1982. Nearly every U.S. House office participates in the program, which is open to high school students across the country.