Tuesday, May 14, 2002 - Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania - U.S. Representative Mike Doyle (PA-18) awarded Brenda Anderson from Springdale High School with the first prize in the 2002 Congressional High School Arts Competition at the 18th Congressional District of Pennsylvania's Arts Forum - "An Artistic Discovery." Brenda's artwork, which will be displayed in the United States Capitol for one year, is an oil painting of a coastal view entitled, "Paradise." Her piece was selected out of a collection of 56 entries from 11 high schools throughout the 18th Congressional District."

The second place prize went to Julia Bradley from Thomas Jefferson High School, for her colored pencil piece titled, "Organic's Reflections." The third prize went to Erica Hughes from Riverview High School for her untitled oil pastel piece, and the fourth prize went to Katelyn Carroll from Springdale High School for her ink piece titled, "American GI, Heroes of the Past."

"This is the eighth year that arts forum has been held in the 18th District, and to me, it is so much more than just picking a first place winner," stated Rep. Doyle. "It is about promoting the arts and bringing recognition to those students with tremendous artistic talents. Over the past years, I have found that this competition brings students, parents, and teachers together in a setting that celebrates the talents of our youth. It is rewarding to be able to sponsor this event knowing the heart these students put into their artistic creations."

Rep. Doyle appreciates the efforts of ProArts and their Executive Director Marilyn Coleman and the important role they played in supporting this year's art competition. ProArts is a non-profit organization dedicated to supporting, strengthening and promoting the arts in Allegheny County. Under Marilyn Coleman's leadership, ProArts has developed and operates technical assistance, consulting, grant making and marketing programs that serve 200 local arts organizations and scores of individual artists annually.

Rep. Doyle was joined by Kerry Spindler who is the Program Associate for the Arts & Culture program at The Heinz Endowments. The Arts & Culture program works to promote the overall vitality of Pittsburgh's cultural sector and its relevance to civic life. Its specific goals are to expand opportunities for arts learning and participation; build creative capital; and advance Pittsburgh as a cultural center.

The national competition was sponsored by the U.S. House of Representatives. All public and private high school students within the 18th Congressional District were invited to participate in this competition. The artwork was judged by an independent board of renowned and accomplished artists who are active in the region's art community. Henry Fiore, a well-known local water colorist, chaired the independent board.

Due to the tremendous number of outstanding pieces of artwork submitted for this competition, the judges awarded the following students either a Judges Choice or Honorable Mention for their artwork:

Judges Choice Awards

Honorable Mention Awards

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