Press Releases

WASHINGTON, DC – Congressman Tim Kennedy (NY-26) announced the winners of the annual Congressional Art Competition. The winning piece from each congressional district is displayed in the Cannon Tunnel to the Capitol Building.

“It is inspiring to see the talent and heart that young people across Western New York pour into their art,” said Congressman Tim Kennedy. “This competition is a powerful reminder that creativity is alive and
well in our schools, and now in the halls of the U.S. Capitol.”

(Congressman Kennedy with Yalin Chang)

“I am thrilled to congratulate Yalin Chang on winning this year’s Congressional High School Art Competition for NY-26. Yalin’s piece is a powerful and deeply personal tribute to what makes Western New York such an extraordinary place. It’s a celebration of community, family, and belonging. I am proud to see this painting represent our district in the halls of Congress.”

Below is a list of this year’s winners:

2025 Winner 

Name: Yalin Chang

School: Williamsville East High School

Title: “Blessed”

Medium: Mixed Media (acrylic paint, acrylic markers, alcohol markers)

1st Runner Up 

Name: Scarlett Vandermeer

School: Buffalo Seminary High School

Title: “Acceptance”

Medium: Acrylic Paint 

2nd Runner Up 

Name: Vanisa Serixay

School: Buffalo Seminary High School

Title: “Dok Champa”

Medium: Soft Pastel 

3rd Runner Up

Name: Amarie McDuffie

School: Nardin Academy

Title: “City of Love”

Medium: Colored Pencil

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