Congresswoman Nicole Malliotakis announced on Mar. 19 the start of the 2026 Congressional Art Competition, inviting high school students from New York’s 11th Congressional District to participate.
The competition aims to recognize and encourage artistic talent among young people while fostering civic engagement. Students are encouraged to create artwork that celebrates America’s history, heritage, ideals, and values in honor of the nation’s upcoming 250th anniversary.
“I am pleased to announce this year’s Congressional Art Competition and invite high school students across our district to showcase their incredible artistic talents,” said Congresswoman Malliotakis. “The Congressional Art Competition is a wonderful opportunity for young artists to express their creativity. As our nation prepares to celebrate America’s 250th anniversary, it is especially meaningful to see the next generation reflect on our country, our history, and the values that make America so special through their art.”
Entries must be two-dimensional and no larger than 26 inches by 26 inches by 4 inches including the frame, with a maximum weight of 15 pounds. Accepted mediums include paintings, drawings, prints, mixed media works using more than two mediums, computer-generated art, and photographs. Each submission must be original in concept and execution and comply with U.S. copyright laws as well as House Office Building Commission policies regarding subject matter.
Artwork must be submitted by Friday, April 24, 2026 at either Congresswoman Malliotakis’ Staten Island or Brooklyn District Offices. The first-place winner will have their artwork displayed in the U.S. Capitol for one year and may attend an exhibition opening celebration in Washington D.C., while second through fourth place winners will have their work displayed in various congressional offices.
Nicole Malliotakis is currently serving in the U.S. Congress representing New York’s 11th district after replacing Max Rose in 2021 according to Wikipedia. She has served in Congress since then following her tenure in the New York State Assembly from 2011 to 2021 as reported by Ballotpedia. Malliotakis was born in New York City in 1980 and resides in Staten Island according to Congress.gov. She graduated from Seton Hall University with a Bachelor of Arts degree and also attended Wagner College according to her official website.
As preparations continue for America’s milestone anniversary celebrations, organizers hope this competition will inspire students throughout the district to reflect on national identity through creative expression.
