WASHINGTON, DC – Late last week, Congressman Tony Cárdenas (CA-29) hosted his virtual Congressional Art Show where artists from high schools across the San Fernando showcased their artwork. During the art show, Cárdenas announced the winner of the 29th Congressional District Art Contest for 2020.
Jersey Damian Vargas from Panorama City, who attends Van Nuys High School, took first prize at the first annual Congressional Art Show held last week. Her piece, A New Generation Begins will be displayed in the United States Capitol
“The San Fernando Valley is home to talented and world-renowned artists like Marilyn Monroe and Ritchie Valens,” said Congressman Cárdenas. “Our community is filled with talented young just waiting to be discovered. We need to encourage the next generation of artists to pursue their dreams. They need to know that one’s zip code doesn’t determine one’s success. I want to thank every student who participated this year and their families. Art is not simply a reflection of who we are, but it is also a tool that we use to build our minds. Education in the arts leads to success in other subjects, and I hope this competition reminds students, teachers, and parents of the importance of investing in the arts.”
The Artistic Discovery Contest is open to all high school students in the 29th District. The winner of our district competition is displayed for one year in the U.S. Capitol. The exhibit in Washington will also include artwork from other contest winners nationwide.
The Congressional Art Competition began in 1982 to provide an opportunity for members of Congress to encourage and recognize the artistic talents of their young constituents. Since then, hundreds of thousands of high school students have been involved with the nationwide competition.