Attention Hudson Valley Artists: Student Competition Opens

Every spring since 1982, the Congress of the United States has held an art competition as a way for members of Congress to recognize and celebrate the artistic achievements of their younger constituents. Since that time, according to the U.S. House of Representatives, more than 650,000 students have participated. The 2106 Congressional Art Competition is now accepting student submissions for this year's consideration.

This contest is open to high school students, but if a school has seventh through twelfth grade in their building, exceptions could be made. All entries must be 2 dimensional, be no larger than 28 inches wide and 28 inches tall, and they must be original in concept, design, and execution. Click here for the full list of entry guidelines and rules.

Here's a slideshow of some of last year's submissions.

The artwork needs to be completed, framed and submitted to your local representative's office by March 28, along with your submission checklist. For constituents of Rep. Sean Patrick Maloney, submissions will be posted on his Facebook page to be voted upon. The winner will be announced in early May.

If you aren't sure where your Representative's office is, click here to find out. Winners will be recognized in their districts as well as at the annual awards ceremony in Washington, DC. The winning works are displayed for one year at the U.S. Capitol.