Press Releases

WASHINGTON, DC – Congressman Tim Kennedy (NY-26) announced the winner of the annual Congressional Art Competition. The winning piece from each congressional district is displayed in the Cannon Tunnel to the Capitol Building. This year's winner, Miana Smith of Grand Island, visited the Capitol to meet Congressman Kennedy and to see her art mounted in the halls of Congress. Miana and her fellow winners from across the country were honored at a ceremony in Washington, with complimentary airline tickets provided by Southwest Airlines for all winners and one guest. The theme of Congressman Kennedy’s competition this year was “Western New York: A Place For All Of Us.”

“It is wonderful to see how dedicated and inspiring young people are across Western New York,” said Congressman Tim Kennedy. “This competition showcases their talent, creativity, and commitment to making a positive impact on Western New York. I am thrilled to congratulate Miana Smith on winning this year’s Congressional High School Art Competition for NY-26. Miana’s piece is a powerful and deeply personal tribute to what makes Western New York great. Not only does it beautifully capture this year’s theme and the welcoming spirit of Western New York, but it reflects the shared values and a sense of community that unites all Western New Yorkers.”

Below is a list of this year's winners:

2026 Winner

Name: Miana Smith 

Hometown: Grand Island 

Title: “Shared Awe”

Medium: Digital Photography

 

1st Runner Up

Name: Mya Mitchell

Hometown: Buffalo

Title: “The Hands That Lift Us”

Medium: Acrylic Paint

 

2nd Runner Up

Name: Jaidan Hagler 

Hometown: Williamsville

Title: “The Queen City’s Secret Stage”

Medium: Photography

 

3rd Runner Up

Name: Vanisa Serixay

Hometown: Buffalo

Title: “Home”

Medium: Watercolor and Color Pencil on Paper

 

Since its inception in 1982, over 650,000 high school students have participated in the Congressional Art Competition.