Congresswoman Ross Announces Winners of the 2026 Congressional Art Competition

Raleigh, N.C. — This week, Congresswoman Deborah Ross (NC-02) announced the winners of the 2026 Second District Congressional Art Competition. The winners were awarded at an event in Raleigh for student participants, parents, teachers, and judges, including sculptor Thomas Dambo. The Congressional Art Competition is a yearly national program open to high school students across the United States. This year, Congresswoman Ross’ office received a record number 82 talented art submissions. Lily Fang, a junior at Champion Education, created the winning piece, “Taste of Home in Carolina.” Fang’s piece was chosen by a panel of Wake County artists, art professionals, and educators, and it will hang in the halls of the U.S. Capitol Building for the next year. “Art has a unique way of bridging cultural differences, transcending time and place, and expanding our horizons, “ said Congresswoman Ross. “This year’s art competition was no exception. As always, I was blown away by the talented artists in Wake County. At our event, we celebrated a record 82 students who submitted their artwork, and they should all be very proud of their accomplishments. I’m excited to see the winning pieces in Washington and Raleigh in the year ahead.” 1st Place Winner: "Taste of Home in Carolina" by Lily Fang, Champion Education 2nd Place Winner: "Unfamiliar Tomorrow" by Catherine Park, Cary Christian Schoo 3rd Place Winner: "Breaking the V" by Sarah Coltrane, Enloe High School Honorable Mention: "Spring Bouquet" by Mr. Westerbeek's ID Severe Class, Knightdale High School The first place winner will have their piece displayed in the U.S. Capitol building for an entire year along with artwork from students in all 50 states. Second place will hang in Congresswoman Ross’ Washington, D.C. office, and third place as well as the honorable mention will hang in her Raleigh office. ###