The United States Congress holds an annual contest to encourage and recognize the artistic talent of students across the country.  All participants are eligible for the title “Best in Show,” which awards one student a $10,000 scholarship to attend the Savannah School of Art and Design and the opportunity to have their work displayed in the Capitol.

The contest was coordinated by the Pitt County Art Council and sponsored by UPS. The top four award winners and honorable mention recipients are as follows:

Best in Show Winner
Christy Nichole Howell for her work, “Angst.”  Christy is the daughter of Joy and Shane Howell of LaGrange and attends Eastern Wayne High School.  Her art teacher at Eastern Wayne is Rebecca L. Davis.  As winner of “Best in Show,” Christy will receive $300 and a $10,000 scholarship to Savannah School of Art and Design.  In addition, Christy’s work will be displayed in the U.S. Capitol.

First Place Winner
Cameron Waff for his untitled work.  Cameron is the son of Terry Waff of Edenton and attends John A. Holmes High School. His art teacher at John A. Holmes is Linda Rutenkroger.  As the first place winner, Cameron will receive $150 and the honor of having his work displayed in the Third District congressional office in Washington, D.C.  Cameron was a third place recipient last year for his work entitled “Grandfather.”

Second Place Winner
Steven Clark, Jr. for his untitled work.  Steven is the son of Steven Clark, Sr. of Newport and attends Croatan High School.  His art teacher at Croatan is Kay K. Zimarino. As the second place winner, Steven will receive $125 and the honor of having his work displayed in the Third District congressional office in Greenville.

Third Place Winner
Calvin Donyel Fields for his work, “Bling Bling.” Calvin is the son of Calvin McKinley Fields of Greenville and attends Farmville Central High School.  His art teacher at Farmville Central is Cathy Tripp. As the third prize winner, Calvin will receive $75.

Honorable Mentions
Abram Sanders for his work, “Backside Tailslide.”  Abram is the son of J.F. Sanders III of Elizabeth City and attends Northeastern High School.  His art teacher at Northeastern is John Lee. Abram will receive $25 for his honorable mention recognition.

Jennifer Robbins for her untitled work.  Jennifer is the daughter of Janet Robbins of Newport and attends Croatan High School.  Her art teacher at Croatan is Kay K. Zimarino. Jennifer will receive $25 for her honorable mention recognition. 

Candace Spicer for her work, “African Baby.” Candace is the daughter of Patricia Spicer of Moyock and attends Currituck High School.  Her art teacher at Currituck is Jimi Sutton.  Candace will receive $25 for her honorable mention recognition.

A reception will be held on Tuesday, June 20 in Washington, D.C. to congratulate all award winners.