Congressman Andy Harris (MD-01) is pleased to announce the winner of the 2017 Congressional Art Competition: Laura Marsh of Crisfield High School and Academy in Crisfield, Maryland. Laura’s mixed media painting, titled “Turning Tides,” depicts a great blue heron with a Maryland blue crab in its mouth, flying across the water in front of a lighthouse.
“All of the submissions that my office received this year were impressive, and I am proud of all of the talented young artists who participated in this year’s competition,” said Congressman Harris. “However, Laura’s entry truly captured the natural beauty and spirit of Maryland’s First District.”
Laura, a junior at Crisfield High School and Academy, is excited by her achievement, stating that “I remember the year prior when I saw the winner’s piece that I felt as though I could never create something like that.” Laura’s parents and art teacher are extremely proud of her accomplishments, as well. Her teacher, Jeremy Holland, commented on her work, “People look at art, and see what they want to see based personal experience. I think Laura had definitely tapped into that with this stunning piece.”
The 2nd place winner of this year’s competition, entitled “Cherry Blossom Walk,” was created by Paulina Panas of Kent County High School. The Gunston School’s Jo Wanner is the 3rd place winner, with a work titled “Self-Portrait.” You can see the winning pieces on Rep. Harris’ Facebook page at www.facebook.com/AndyHarrisMD. 
Since 1982, the U.S. House of Representatives has sponsored the Congressional Art Competition to acknowledge the artistic talents of high school students from each Congressional district throughout the country. Each district selects one winner, and that student has the opportunity to display his or her artwork for one year in the U.S. Capitol Building. The student’s piece is displayed alongside artwork from other gifted high school students from across the country.
