WASHINGTON, D.C. (June 7, 2017) – Eastern Washington Congresswoman Cathy McMorris Rodgers (WA-05) today announced the winner of the annual Congressional Art Competition for high school students living in Eastern Washington.
 

First Place: “Congelato in Tempo” by Alex Kjeldgaard

First place in this year’s competition was awarded to Alex Kjeldgaard, a junior from College Place High School in College Place, Washington, for his photography piece “Congelato in Tempo.” As the winner, Alex will have the opportunity to fly out to Washington, D.C. to take part in a recognition ceremony and see his artwork displayed in the United States Capitol Building this month. Alex is the son of Chad and Michelle Kjeldgaard. His art teacher at College Place High School is Kathi DeBroeck.

“I am so proud of all our talented students here in Eastern Washington,” said McMorris Rodgers. “A special congratulations to Alex Kjeldgaard, this year’s winner. I look forward to meeting you, Alex, when you are here in D.C. for the reception and to seeing your beautiful photo as I walk to the U.S. Capitol each day.”
 

Finalist: “Lost In Thought” by Charlie Hein

One of the three finalists was Charlie Hein, a freshman at College Place High School in College Place, Washington, for her computer generated piece “Lost In Thought.” Charlie is the daughter of Lynn Pontarolo. Her art teacher at College Place High School is Kathi DeBroeck.
 

Finalist: “Kudos to You” by Dakota Shafer

Another of the finalists was Dakota Shafer, a senior at Selkirk Junior and Senior High School in Ione, Washington, for her mixed media piece “Kudos to You.” Dakota is the daughter of Craig and Stephanie Shafer. Her art teacher at Selkirk Junior and Senior High School is Clarinda Vandyke.
 

Finalist: “Realistic Heart” by Samantha Sidorak

Samantha Sidorak, one of the finalists, is a senior at the Southeast Area Technical Skills Center in Walla Walla, Washington. Her pen and ink piece is titled “Realistic Heart.” Samantha is the daughter of Alixis Sidorak. Her digital media instructor at the Southeast Area Technical Skills Center is Jeffrey Townsend.

The Congressional Art Competition is an annual competition for high school students across the United States. Each Congressional office selects one winner to display in the tunnel connecting the Cannon House Office Building to the U.S. Capitol traveled daily by members of Congress, staff, and visitors to Washington, D.C.

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