Each spring, the Congressional Institute sponsors a nationwide high school visual art competition to recognize and encourage artistic talent in the nation and in each congressional district. The competition provides an opportunity for members of Congress to encourage and recognize the artistic talents of their young constituents.

Students submit entries to their representative’s office, and panels of local artists in each district select the winning entries, which are then displayed for 1 year at the Capitol. Citizens taking tours of the Capitol often will stop to appreciate their home district’s contribution.

Winners are recognized both in their district and at an annual Awards Ceremony in Washington, DC.