If you’re a high schooler in New York’s 13th congressional district, here’s some exciting news: you could have your artwork hanging in the U.S. Capitol! The district is rolling out the red carpet for creative students with a national contest that might land your piece in Washington, D.C.—pretty cool, right?
Each year, Congressman Adriano Espaillat and his team bring the Congressional Art Competition to local schools. It’s a call for original submissions from students, designed to shine a light on young talent and tie local art makers into a nationwide tradition that’s been going strong since the early 1980s.
The countdown is on: all submissions need to be in by April 1, so there’s not a lot of time for last-minute masterpieces. Everything is handled digitally, making it easier for busy students to enter from anywhere.
For aspiring artists in the city—especially those from Upper Manhattan and the Bronx—this is a prime chance to have their unique perspectives recognized on a national level. Their art has the potential to tell the neighborhood’s story to thousands of Capitol visitors.
So, What’s the Congressional Art Competition All About?
This nationwide contest is a big deal, hosted by the House of Representatives. Each district across the country picks a student winner, who then gets their artwork displayed front and center in the U.S. Capitol for a full year.
Since 1982, more than 650,000 young artists have participated, making this one of the largest and longest-running student art exhibitions around.
The winning artwork is hung in a spot that’s bustling with activity—lawmakers, staffers, and tourists pass by every day, which means big-time exposure for the artist.
For NYC’s 13th district, it’s also a nod to the area’s creative roots and the diverse stories that shape the community.
Which Neighborhoods Are Involved?
New York’s 13th district weaves through both Upper Manhattan and parts of the northwest Bronx. The full list includes:
- Harlem
- East Harlem
- Hamilton Heights
- Washington Heights
- Inwood
- Marble Hill
- Morningside Heights
- Fordham
- Kingsbridge
- Bedford Park
- University Heights
- Morris Heights
This patchwork of neighborhoods is part of one of the country’s most diverse districts, home to over 700,000 people representing a wide range of cultures—especially Hispanic communities.
It’s common for student submissions to reflect this diversity, with everything from lively street scenes to artwork dedicated to family history.
What Art Forms Are Accepted?
There’s a lot of flexibility here—as long as your piece is two-dimensional. Accepted categories include:
- Paintings (oil, acrylic, watercolor)
- Drawings (pencil, charcoal, ink, pastel)
- Collages
- Printmaking (such as silkscreen or lithograph)
- Mixed media
- Digital/computer-generated art
- Photography
Just remember: the entry has to be your own idea and your own hand. No sculptures or anything 3D—this contest is strictly for flat pieces.
What Do Winners Get Out of It?
The district winner receives the honor of having their art displayed in Washington, along with an invite to join a special winner’s reception on Capitol Hill.
Students taking second or third place typically get their work shown off in local congressional offices, and those earning honorable mentions might see their art displayed publicly in the district.
For many, it’s more than just a ribbon—it’s often a launchpad for future opportunities in the arts or creative industries.
About Congressman Espaillat
The man behind this local initiative, Adriano Espaillat, has served the 13th district since 2017 and is a history maker as the first Dominican American in Congress. Beyond politics, he champions programs like this to engage and inspire the next generation.
Why Do These Competitions Matter?
With funding for school art programs being squeezed nationwide, contests like the Congressional Art Competition are crucial. They give students a public platform and encourage sustained creativity, especially in communities rich in artistic heritage.
It’s a reminder that districts are more than political borders—they’re neighborhoods filled with storytellers and creators.
How to Enter the Competition
If you’re ready to participate, just follow these steps:
- Double-check that you live or attend school in the 13th district
- Review the competition’s official rules
- Fill out the required student release form
- Email a digital image of your artwork by April 1
Be sure to send both your entry and the forms to the district office before the deadline hits.
Frequently Asked Questions
What area does the 13th congressional district cover?
It includes neighborhoods in Upper Manhattan and the northwest Bronx, like Harlem, Washington Heights, and Fordham.
Who is the current congressional representative?
Adriano Espaillat represents this district.
What is the Congressional Art Competition?
It’s a nationwide contest giving high schoolers the chance to have their art displayed at the U.S. Capitol.
When is the submission deadline?
This year’s deadline is April 1—don’t miss it!
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