WASHINGTON – U.S. Congresswoman Candice Miller (MI-10) presented Shaunee Cruz, a senior at L’Anse Creuse High School, with her first place certificate and official congratulatory letters from leaders of the U.S. House of Representatives for winning the “Artistic Discovery” Congressional art competition. Cruz’s Linoleum cut print, “Allison” will be displayed in the Cannon Tunnel of the United States Capitol for one year.
“Shaunee has a wonderful talent that is recognizable in her piece, ‘Allison.’ Her work will now be on display for visitors from around the country and the world to enjoy,” said Miller. “I am so pleased to have Shaunee’s art represent the 10th District of Michigan in Washington, DC.”
Congresswoman Miller also announced the second and third prize winners in the “Artistic Discovery” program. Steven Hoffa, a senior at Lapeer East High School, earned 2nd place for his printmaking entry entitled, ‘initials chine colle.’ The piece will hang in Miller’s Washington, D.C. office for one year. Annie Cousins, a 12th grader at L’Anse Creuse High School won 3rd Place for her watercolor entitled “arbor nights.” Cousins’ art will be displayed in the Congresswoman’s Shelby Township office for one year.
“Steven, Annie and all of the students who submitted their art pieces this year should be immensely proud of the work,” Miller said. “Their parents, teachers and schools have all played a role in supporting these young people’s talents and should be commended for their encouraging them to pursue their artistic talents.”
The competition, created in 1982, honors high school students from each of the nation’s 435 Congressional Districts. The contest is open to all high school students in the Tenth Congressional District, and this year 98 students entered the contest. It was judged by:
• Sharon Will, resident of Washington Township, has been a pastel and oil artist for over 25 years, as well is a painter and a custom framer.
• Viana Szabo, an award winning artist who lives in Romeo, MI and has been working as a professional portrait artist for the past 15 years. She works in both oil and pastel.
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