Prince George teen Melissa Elizabeth Rivero wins 2022 Congressional Art Competition

PRINCE GEORGE – Melissa Elizabeth Rivero, a senior at Prince George High School, is the winner of the 2022 Congressional Art Competition. The nationwide high school arts competition is sponsored each spring by the Members of the U.S. House of Representatives to recognize and encourage artistic talent.

Rivero is an AP art student and a member of the International Baccalaureate program. She was selected for her digital piece "Linked by Leaves." It will hang in the U.S. Capitol for one year in the Cannon Tunnel which connects the Cannon House Office Building to the Capitol. 

All high school students who live in Virginia's 4th Congressional District were invited to submit original artwork in concept, design and execution to the Office of Congressman A. Donald McEachin. 

“The talent that comes from our district every year is truly remarkable,” Rep. McEachin [VA-04] said. “Ms. Rivero’s submission was an incredible digital piece that demonstrated a sophisticated and unique artistic ability. This is the first digital piece to win the Congressional Art Competition for Virginia’s Fourth, which is a testament to Ms. Rivero’s artistry and impressive execution. I look forward to seeing her artwork hang in the U.S. Capitol and represent our district in Washington. Congratulations on this achievement!” 

Varina High School junior Haley Gantz placed second for her "Lois Mailou Jones" entry.

Appomattox Regional Governor's School sophomore Ashley Deeds placed third for her "Weapons of War" entry. 

“All of the submissions this year were incredibly beautiful and competitive; however, I would like to congratulate Ms. Gantz and Ms. Deeds on being selected for second and third place,” McEachin said. “I commend all of the students who participated in this year’s competition."

In his press release announcing the winners, McEachin thanked the panel of judges for lending their time and expertise to judge and select the winners. The judges, all local artists, convened by McEachin included S. Ross Browne, Taekia Glass, and Sara Ward. 

For more information, visit mceachin.house.gov.

Project Plant It!:Petersburg youth tour VSU farm via trolley: Watch Dominion Energy foresters plant trees

Opening night receptions: You're invited:Petersburg Appomattox Regional Governor's School students' artwork on exhibit in Old Towne

— Kristi K. Higgins aka The Social Butterfly columnist is the trending topics and food Q&A reporter at The Progress-Index. Have a news tip on local trends or businesses? Contact Kristi (she, her) at khiggins@progress-index.com, follow @KHiggins_PI on Twitter, @socialbutterflykristi on Instagram, and subscribe to us at progress-index.com.