The 2nd congressional district art competition was held on Monday at Greenville High School’s gymnasium.
This is the 19th year, the competition has been held. There were 20 schools involved and 295 pieces of art was shown at the event.
“This is apart of the congressional art contest,” said Congressman Bennie Thompson. “435 members of congress from each district look at art programs which leads us to this day, so we could receive submissions. We reach out to schools to receive the art, judge and then place the winning submissions.”
First prize winner goes to D.C. Their artwork gets displayed in the Cannon Tunnel in D.C. for a year. They also get an opportunity to compete in the national congressional competition. If they win, they will receive a full ride to Savannah School of Art & Design.
“We are exposing the children to various new opportunities that are available in the art field,” said Ashley Beale, coordinator of the event.
Representative John Hines believes that this event is a great opportunity.
“This is one of the best events for children in the Delta with the opportunity to receive national exposure,” Hines said. “The talent pool in the MS Delta is endless and we should take the opportunity to display their talent.”
Ben Luckett and Judge Cedric Bush were two judges for the event and they were both pleased with the amount of talent they saw.
“There is a lot of great artwork coming from a lot of great artists and it is hard to determine which ones are the greatest,” Luckett said.
“I think its a great for students here in the second congressional district to display their talent and put themselves in a position to receive a scholarship from two of the most prestigious art schools in the nation,” Bush said.
“The City of Greenville thanks the Congressman for his continued service and support of arts in education,” said Mayor Errick Simmons. “Education in the arts is an integral part of the development of our youth; and, this competition, thanks to our Congressman, helps improve our students’ artistic, concentration, critical thinking and communication skills. We are proud of not only opening our doors for this competition but also claiming the gold and bronze this year.
The City salutes this year’s winner, Lonagcio Smith, for winning 1st place. His father is a training officer with the Greenville Fire Department. Charles Rounds won second place from Murray High School in Jackson. Triston Hathrock of Riverside High placed 3rd in this competition.”
First place winner is Lonagcio Smith, a sophomore at Greenville High School. Second place winner is Charles Rounds, a junior at Murrah High School. Third place winner is Triston Hathrock, a senior at Riverside High School.
