Kean announces 2026 Congressional Art Competition for high school students in 7th District
NEW JERSEY — U.S. Rep. Tom Kean Jr., R-N.J., has announced the start of the 2026 Congressional Art Competition, inviting high school students from New Jersey’s 7th Congressional District to submit original artwork.
The annual contest, sponsored by the Congressional Institute, serves as the U.S. House of Representatives’ official art competition for high school students nationwide.
This year’s competition theme, “Celebrating America’s 250 Years,” aligns with the upcoming nationwide observance of the United States’ 250th anniversary. Students are encouraged to create artwork that highlights the nation’s history, culture and natural beauty.
“I am incredibly impressed with the creativity and talent of the students across our district,” Kean said in a statement. “Art has always been a powerful medium to celebrate what makes our nation great, and I look forward to seeing how this year’s student artists bring America’s 250th anniversary to life through their work.”
The winning student will be invited to Washington, D.C., in June to attend a celebration honoring their achievement. The winning artwork will also be displayed in the U.S. Capitol alongside winning entries from congressional districts across the country.
The submission deadline is April 1 at 5 p.m.
Students interested in participating can find official guidelines and submission information on Kean’s congressional website.
