Rep. Harris Announces 2018 Congressional Art Competition Winner

WASHINGTON, DC: Congressman Andy Harris (MD-01) is pleased to announce the winner of the 2018 Congressional Art Competition: Nora Gast of Kent Island High School in Stevensville, Maryland. Nora’s watercolor painting, titled “Small Things with Great Love,” portrays Saint Teresa of Calcutta, a Roman Catholic nun, winner of the 1979 Nobel Peace Prize, and the founder of the Missionaries of Charity.

“Every year, I am amazed by the artistic talent of the students in Maryland’s First District,” said Congressman Harris. “Nora’s entry was particularly captivating to me. Her attention to detail and the simple elegance of her piece are truly stunning.”

Nora, a junior at Kent Island High School, was thrilled to hear that she had won, stating “I’m really excited and shocked to be chosen. I put a lot of work and effort into this and it’s really an honor to be picked by Congressman Harris.”

Andrea Schulte, Nora’s art teacher, stated that “Nora’s captivating watercolor painting of Mother Teresa is just one if many equally impressive pieces she has produced. Her insight, work ethic, and dedication to the creative process are unparalleled. I am so proud of Nora and grateful that she is being recognized for her work.”

The 2nd place winner of this year’s competition, entitled “Pintails in the Marsh,” was submitted by Jacob Kozak of Calvert Hall College High School. North Caroline High School’s Minnthu Phan claimed 3rd place, with a work titled “Self-Portraits.” Photos of the top three submissions can be viewed on Rep. Harris’ Facebook page atwww.facebook.com/AndyHarrisMD. The rest of this year’s submissions can be viewed at the Salisbury Art Space until June 10. The gallery will host a free a public reception for the show on May 18 at 5:00 PM.

Since 1982, the U.S. House of Representatives has sponsored the Congressional Art Competition to acknowledge the artistic talents of high school students from each Congressional district. Nora’s painting will be displayed in the U.S. Capitol for one year. The submissions of this year’s runners-up will be displayed in Congressman Harris’ Washington, DC and district offices.