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Congressman Bill Posey hosted the third annual District 15 Congressional Art Competition for high school students at the Foosaner Art Museum on Saturday, April 14, 2012. Since its establishment in 1982 over 650,000 high school students have been involved with the nation-wide competition.

The 1st place winning artist will have the distinguished honor of having their work displayed in the Capitol building in Washington, D.C., an all-expenses paid trip to Washington, D.C. with a parent or guardian, as well as a scholarship to the Savannah College of Art and Design. The 2nd and 3rd place winners will have their art displayed in Congressman Posey’s Florida office.

Special presentations were made by Brevard Cultural Alliance, Foosaner Art Museum, Florida Institute of Technology, Brighthouse Networks, and Gifford Youth Orchestra.

“We have so many talented young artists in our area and I enjoyed viewing all of their work,” said Congressman Posey. “Competitions like this help provide a creative outlet for young artists and I would like to thank all of those involved in making this event a successful one.”

“The Foosaner Art Museum of Florida Institute of Technology was honored to host the 2012 Congressional Art Competition. Personally, I was impressed by the artistic talent of the students and the depth and variety of their interpretations of the patriotic theme,” said Carla Funk, Director of University Museums Academic Affairs.

Winner’s List:
• 1st Place - Kelly Thomas, ‘Faded But Always Proud’ (2-D photograph), Merritt Island High School, Teacher: Mr. Gregory Leary
• 2nd Place - Vicki Zuckert, ‘Melting Cone’ (2-D pencil), Indian River High Charter School, Teacher: Mr. Harvey Kornicks
• 3rd Place - Amber O’Dell, ‘Brothers of War’ (2-D pencil), Indian River Charter High School, Teacher: Mr. Harvey Kornicks

Honorable Mention:
• Marcella Debrito, ‘The Presidents of the United States’ (2-D ink) – Indian River Charter High School (Indian River County) Teacher: Mr. Harvey Kornicks
• Kiana Farrell, ‘Freedom to Dance’ (2-D photograph) – Merritt Island High School (Brevard County) Teacher: Mr. Gregory Leary
• Alexis Claudio, ‘Mother America’ (color pencil) – Poinciana High School (Osceola County) Teacher: Ms. Maureen Maurer

“As I viewed the artwork submitted for the annual Congressional Art Competition exhibit, I was very thankful that did not have to judge the outstanding artwork,” said Bridget Geiger, Brevard Public Schools K12 Visual Arts Resource Teacher. “These young artists showed evidence of critical thinking, strong application of skills and techniques, creativity, and thoughtful expressions on the patriotic theme in ways that are individually powerful and moving in every piece.”

“I appreciate the opportunity for Osceola County students to showcase their passion and talent in the Congressional Art Competition. It is wonderful that our elected officials recognize the importance of developing our students by providing these sort of experiences for them and that the community has the chance to see the gifts that our students have to offer,” said Debbie Fahmie, Fine and Performing Arts Resource Teacher, Osceola District School Board.

“The School District of Indian River County is proud to have participated in a worthy program like the 2012 Congressional Art Competition. We recognize the value art plays in our society and in educating young adults. We join with Congressman Posey in congratulating these talented students.”