Washington, D.C. - Congressman Dale E. Kildee (D-MI) today announced Michigan’s 5^th Congressional District winner and finalists of the 27^th Annual Congressional Arts Competition. This annual event is held in each of the 435 Congressional Districts to highlight the importance of art education.  Craig Kelly Jr. of Grand Blanc High School won for his work, Lisa, and will be eligible for a scholarship to study at the Savannah College of Art and Design.

“The Congressional Arts Competition is a thrill for me every year. The assortment of spectacular works that flood into my office bring with them vibrant colors and provoking imagery that will brighten our walls and those of the Capitol in the coming year,” said Kildee. “Art education programs are crucial to the continued development of the youthful creativity that brightens up our lives and inspires innovation.”

The following high school students from Michigan’s 5^th Congressional District were selected as finalists by a panel of local Michigan artists: 

• Mimi Dang of Flushing High School for Springtime and Self Portrait;
• Brianna Johnston of Caro High School for Brandon;
• Samantha Koch of Flushing High School for Leaf on Grass;
• Kara Mooney of Caro High School for April Flowers;
• Cinthia Montague of Clio High School for her untitled work;
• Veronica Osowski of Mayville High School for Finding Freedom;
• Alyssa Prince of Davison High School for Portrait of an African American Woman; and
• Amer Sahoury of Clio High School for Media Frenzy.

Craig Kelly’s Lisa, for one year, will be displayed in the U.S. Capitol along with qualifying pieces from every Congressional District in the nation. In addition, Craig will be made eligible for a $5,000 scholarship from the Savannah College of Art and Design in Georgia. Works submitted by the finalists will be displayed in Congressman Kildee's district offices on a rotating basis.