WASHINGTON, D.C. - Congressman Robert Aderholt, R-Alabama, recently announced the launch of the 2026 4th Congressional District Art Competition, inviting all high school students in Alabama’s 4th District to showcase their artistic talent. The category winners will all receive scholarship offers to Wallace State Community College and the overall winner, the “Best of Show,” will also have their piece displayed in the United States Capitol.
Now in its 45th year, the Congressional Art Competition is a nationwide visual arts contest sponsored by the U.S. House of Representatives and the Congressional Institute. The program celebrates the creativity of high school artists across the country and gives young creators a unique opportunity to have their artwork displayed in one of the nation’s most iconic buildings.
“The Congressional Art Competition gives students across the 4th District a chance to share their creativity with the world,” said Aderholt. “I am continually inspired by the imagination and dedication these young artists bring to their work. I encourage all eligible students to participate and show the extraordinary talent we have in our district.”
Competition details
- Eligibility: Open to all high school students, grades 9-12, residing in Alabama’s 4th Congressional District, including homeschooled students
- Submission deadline: April 8 by 4 p.m. to Congressman Aderholt’s district offices
- Guidelines: Students may submit original artwork in various media including painting, drawing, collage, prints, mixed media, photography and computer-generated art
- Judging: A panel of local art professionals will review all entries and select the winning piece based on creativity, skill and originality
The artist selected as “Best of Show” will have their work displayed in the U.S. Capitol for approximately one year, where it will be viewed by Members of Congress, staff and visitors from across the nation and around the world. Additionally, the winning student will be honored at a reception in Washington, D.C.
All category winners will receive a scholarship offer to Wallace State that may be used for any course of study offered at the college.
Since its inception in 1982, the Congressional Art Competition has encouraged more than 650,000 students to participate, fostering artistic talent and civic engagement among young Americans.
For official rules, entry forms and submission details, please contact Aderholt’s office or visit: https://aderholt.house.gov/2026-art-competition.
