WASHINGTON, D.C. – Montana’s Congressman, Denny Rehberg, has posted 88 entries from Montana high school students in two albums on the popular social networking website Facebook. Facebook users are encouraged to visit Rehberg’s Facebook Profile to vote for their favorite entries. The top five vote-getters will be included among the finalists for the contest.
“The Congressional Art Competition is a great way for Montana’s young artists to be recognized and rewarded for their talents,” said Rehberg, a member of the House Appropriations Committee. “Now, for the first time, all Montanans can see this artwork for themselves and help choose a winner.”
The annual competition began in 1982 to showcase the artistic talents of the nation’s students. A grand prize winner and runner-up entry will be selected from among the Montana submissions. The winner’s artwork will be on display for one year in the Cannon Tunnel, a pedestrian walkway leading to the United States Capitol. The walkway is frequented by Members of Congress, staff, and the general public as they enter the Capitol Building. The first runner-up’s entry will be displayed for the public in Rehberg’s Washington, D.C. office. Honorable mentions may also be selected for display in Rehberg’s Montana offices.
The School of Fine Arts at the University of Montana is offering a $1,000 art scholarship to the Montana winner of the 2009 competition. The scholarship offer is good for the 2009-2010 academic school year, and the winner must be enrolled as an art major. Each congressional district winner is also eligible for other scholarship offers through various institutions.
“Facebook is a great way for me to stay in touch with Montanans,” said Rehberg. “Between news updates, videos and discussions, the Internet provides a level of access that is as exciting as it is unprecedented.”
Facebook voting is open until 12 Noon Mountain Time on May 18, 2009. Rehberg’s Facebook Profile can be found at http://www.facebook.com/people/Denny-Rehberg/1506860059
