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AMSTERDAM, NY—Congressman Paul D. Tonko announced today the NY-20 winners of the 2021 Congressional Art Competition. The winning artwork has been chosen from 44 student submissions representing 16 schools across New York’s 20th Congressional District.

“I am always amazed by the incredible talent and creativity of our Capital Region students but this year’s competition, amidst so many historic challenges, showed a depth, skill and resilience in our young people that is absolutely remarkable,” Congressman Tonko said. “Creative expression through the arts is an important part of the learning process, allowing students to push the boundaries of their imagination and experience and give voice to their many unique and powerful perspectives. During these difficult times, this expression is more important than ever. I am honored to recognize our winners and humbled to recognize and thank every student whose work we reviewed and every person who has helped them along the way.”

• Best in Show – Mary Kate Sullenberger, Shaker High School, “Sinking”, colored pencil
• Runner Up – Josefina Casper, Schenectady High School, “He Takes Time in His Own Little World”, watercolor and micron pen
• Honorable Mention – Andre Adonnino, Shenendehowa High School, “It’s a Bird, It’s a Plane, It’s…”, acrylic on canvas
• Honorable Mention – Lucy Lee, Shaker High School, “Collaged Self”, paper collage
• Honorable Mention – Katherine Pagnotta, Ravena Coeymans Selkirk High School, “Untitled”, charcoal
• Honorable Mention – Jacob Serekede, Clayton A. Bouton High School, “Self Portrait”

“Congratulations to Mary Kate for her exceptional work, and to all of our Capital Region students who took part in this competition, Tonko continued. “My heartfelt gratitude to the extraordinary efforts of our art teachers who supported and facilitated their students’ participation this year under these very challenging circumstances.”

Due to the pandemic, Congressman Tonko’s office conducted the annual Congressional Art Competition via electronic submission.

The winner will be honored at a reception in Washington D.C. in October and have their artwork displayed in the Capitol for the following six months.

The annual Congressional Art Competition celebrates the artistic achievements of the nation’s high school students. Since it began in 1982, more than 670,000 high school students have participated.

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