Rep. Schakowsky Announces 2013 High School Winner of the Artistic Discovery Congressional Art Competition

Washington, DC (May 6, 2013) — Rep. Jan Schakowsky announced the Illinois 9th district's winners of the 2013 "An Artistic Discovery Congressional Art Competition." This year's competition drew entries from 42 students and 18 area high schools.

"The Artistic Discovery Congressional Art Competition is one of my favorite annual events because it allows students from across our community to show their talent and creativity. It also shows the importance of arts education in helping young people realize their potential.

"This year's competition drew entries from 42 students and 18 area high schools, including special education schools. I would like to thank Executive Director of Arts Alliance Illinois, Ra Joy who dedicates his energy to strengthening the nonprofit arts in Illinois and enabling arts organizations to better serve their communities. I am happy to announce that the 2013 winner of the Artistic Discovery Congressional Art Competition is Barbara Magiera from the Niles West High School. As the first place winner, Barbara will be honored at a ceremony in Washington and have her painting, "Artistic Interpretations," hang in the Capitol for a year. I'm so appreciative of all the students who entered their artwork this year as it was clear that each young artist has incredible talent and ambition."

Schakowsky viewed this year's entries along with approximately 100 parents, family members, students and teachers on May 1st at the Skokie Public Library. Winners were selected by a panel of independent judges made up of local artists and art advocates.

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