Thompson Announces Winner of the 2026 Congressional Art Competition

April 21, 2026 Press Release Emma Zacherl takes home top prize for painting titled 'Redhawk' Image WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Representative Glenn “GT” Thompson announced today the 2026 Congressional Art Competition winner: Emma Zacherl, a Junior at Clarion-Limestone High School. Ms. Zacherl of Clarion won for her oil painting, titled "Redhawk." An independent panel of judges selected Ms. Zacherl's work from 43 entries. Ms. Zacherl also took home the top prize in the 2024 and 2025 art competitions. The high school artists gathered Saturday for an exhibit at the Winkler Gallery of Fine Art in DuBois, Pa. “Emma Zacherl’s artwork is top-tier and a reflection of her hard work,” Rep. Thompson said . “Emma should be proud of this achievement, and I look forward to welcoming her to our nation’s capital later this year.” The Congressional Art Competition began in 1982 to provide an opportunity for Members of Congress to encourage and recognize the artistic talents of their young constituents. Since then, more than 650,000 high school students have participated in the nationwide competition. Ms. Zacherl’s artwork will be displayed in a special exhibit in the U.S. Capitol for one year with winners from each congressional district in the nation. She is invited to attend a reception in Washington, D.C., with other winners, which will take place in June. 2026 Congressional Art Competition Winners: First Place NAME: Emma Zacherl SCHOOL: Clarion-Limestone High School SUBMISSION: Redhawk TEACHER: Kendra Zerbe Second Place NAME: Maya Fatula SCHOOL: DuBois Area Senior High School SUBMISSION: Unexplored City TEACHER: Cheyenne Kanouff Third Place NAME: Rosalynn Renfrew SCHOOL: Keystone High School SUBMISSION: Dear Emelia TEACHER: Janet Hockman Fourth Place NAME: Cameron Sarick SCHOOL: DuBois Area Senior High School SUBMISSION: In the Friday Night Lights TEACHER: Cheyenne Kanouff