Congressman Andrew Clyde has announced the opening of the 2026 Congressional Art Competition for high school students in Georgia’s Ninth District. The competition invites submissions from local students, with entries due by February 20. The winning artwork will be displayed in the U.S. Capitol building for one year.
“The annual Congressional Art Competition provides an awesome opportunity for young artists across the nation to show off their creativity and artistic skills,” said Clyde. “I encourage high school students across the Ninth District to participate in this year’s competition, and I look forward to seeing their unique designs.”
Last year, Philip Jeong won the district’s competition with his piece titled “Hope.”
The Congressional Art Competition, also known as The Artistic Discovery Contest, is a nationwide event sponsored each spring by Members of the U.S. House of Representatives. Since its start in 1982, it has provided an opportunity for lawmakers to recognize artistic talent among young constituents.
The winning entry from Georgia’s Ninth District will hang in the Cannon Tunnel of the U.S. Capitol, a heavily trafficked corridor connecting congressional offices with the Capitol itself.
Students eligible to participate must attend high school within Georgia’s Ninth Congressional District. Clyde encouraged submissions that reflect aspects of North Georgia such as landmarks, industries, notable individuals, or schools.
This year’s submission process includes two rounds: first, students must send a digital image of their artwork and a completed Student Release Form via email by February 20; selected finalists will then be invited to deliver their physical pieces to Congressman Clyde’s Gainesville office by March 13.
Artwork requirements specify that entries must be two-dimensional and adhere to size restrictions: no larger than 26 inches on any side or four inches deep when framed, and weighing no more than 15 pounds. Accepted mediums include paintings, drawings, collages (two-dimensional), prints, mixed media works using at least two different materials, computer-generated art, and photographs. All work must be original and comply with copyright laws; copied images are not permitted.
For further details about rules or submission logistics, interested participants can contact Rep. Clyde’s Gainesville office.
Andrew Clyde has represented Georgia’s Ninth District since winning election in 2020 against Devin Pandy with nearly 79% of votes. He was re-elected in subsequent contests against Michael Ford in 2022 (72%) and Tambrei Cash in 2024 (69%).
