Beaulac's Artwork To Be Displayed In The Capitol For The Next Year

New York, NY - Today Congressman Charles Rangel joined local arts leaders, students and parents as he announced this year's winner, Srey Beaulac of the The Dwight School, of the 15th Congressional District's Congressional Arts Competition, at the Harlem State Office Building. Beaulac will travel with her parents to Washington, D.C. to participate in a national reception that will bring together winners from all congressional districts throughout the country. Her painting will then hang in the U.S. Capitol until May 2013.

"The earnest ambition shown by these students who submitted their artwork is laudable," said Rangel. "Art is a language of passion and creativity that has no words. I am proud that the contestants have chosen to speak to the country through their submissions and represent the talent that reflects the tradition and legacy of our arts community."

The Congressional Art Competition is part of the nationwide effort hosted by Members of the U.S. House of Representatives to display the artistic talents and abilities of students in all 50 states, the District of Columbia and the U.S. territories. Last year, "Cat's Cradle" by Grace Yoon of the Trinity School was selected as the winning artwork in our district.

This year's winner was chosen among seven finalists, whose work has been on display in the Art Gallery of the Adam Clayton Powell State Office Building for over a week, after letters were sent out to local high schools soliciting participants. The pieces were judged by a group of local arts community leaders that included: Dr. Marta Moreno-Vega of the Caribbean Culture Center, Dr. Voza Rivers of The Dwyer Center, Dr. Jorge Pina of the Dominican Foundation Culturarte of New York, Mr. Michael Unthank of the Harlem Arts Alliance, Mrs. Rocio Alvarado of El Musio del Barrio, Ms. Thelma Golden of the Studio Museum of Harlem, Mr. Thomas Lunke of the Harlem Community Development Corporation, Mr. Gregory Mills, Curator of the Harlem State Office Building Art Gallery, and Ms. J.J. El-Far of the Harlem Arts Festival.

"The arts are a crucial pillar in the development of our communities and youth. My Democratic Colleagues and I are committed to securing funding for the arts and related educational programs," said Rangel. "New York City is the global epicenter for artistic expression and culture. I am proud to represent these talented participants, their schools, and to work with local art leaders who tirelessly dedicate their time for the betterment of the community. "

The Congressional Art Competition began in 1982 as an opportunity for Members of Congress to encourage and recognize the artistic talents of students in their districts.  Since then, over 650,000 high school students have participated in the nationwide competition.  One piece from each congressional district is displayed for a period of one year.