Congressman Denham (CA-19) announced today that he will hold a reception on today in Turlock to honor the 19th Congressional District students who participated in the 2012 Congressional Art Competition.

Each spring, a nation-wide high school art competition is sponsored by the Members of the U.S. House of Representatives. The Artistic Discovery Contest is an opportunity to recognize and encourage the artistic talent in the nation, as well as in the 19th Congressional District.

Congressman Denham’s office received entries from high school students all over the 19th District this year. All entries will be on display for public viewing at the Carnegie Arts Center (250 North Broadway Avenue) in Turlock on today from 5:30pm – 6:30pm. The viewing will conclude with a reception for participating students, their art teachers, families, the judges, and the curators of the Carnegie Arts Center.

This year’s judging panel included two local artists, Alice Richards and Kathleen Pethoud, and the Deputy Director of the Carnegie Arts Center, Lisa McDermott. At the reception, Congressman Denham will present all participating students with a Certificate of Congressional Recognition.

The following are the first, second and third place winners for the 2012 Congressional Art Competition:

First Place: Light by Gabriella Santellano, Hoover High School – Fresno, CA
Second Place: The Old Oak Tree by Elora Hargis, Fresno Christian High School – Fresno, CA
Third Place: Wish by Stefani Peck, Fresno Christian High School – Fresno, CA

As the winner, Gabriella Santellano’s artwork will be displayed for one year as part of an exhibit displaying the winning pieces from Congressional districts nation-wide in the U.S. Capitol.