Moose Lake student top winner of 2012 Congressional Art Competition

A Moose Lake eighth-grader earned first place honors in the 2012 Congressional Art Competition. Each spring, the Congressional Institute sponsors a nationwide high school visual art competition to recognize and encourage artistic talent in the nation and in each congressional district. The competition provides an opportunity for members of Congress to encourage and recognize the artistic talents of their young constituents.

U.S. Representative Chip Cravaack (MN-8) announced this week that Tachianna Charpenter of Moose Lake High School was the top winner. Charpenter’s black and white photo, “Alone,” captured the judge’s eyes.

“I took this picture of my cousin Belle on a marvelous day in Duluth,” explained Charpenter. “I believe this picture is dynamic because it shows movement from the wind. I took it in black and white because it shows the shadows and textures better.”

Second place went to Grand Rapids High School junior Gabrielle Berkhoe for her ink “Self Portrait.” Honorable mentions went to Littlefork-Big Falls seventh-grader Sara Swenson for her photo, “Playground Polka Dots,” and Grand Rapids ninth-grader Laura Lemke for her acrylic, “Examination.”

The first-place artwork will be displayed in the United States Capitol for a year-long “Artistic Discovery” exhibition which highlights the creative genius of young artists from across the nation. The second-place winner’s artwork will be on display in Rep. Cravaack’s Main Office in North Branch, and honorable mention awards will be recognized with a Congressional letter of commendation.

“Congratulations to Tachianna for her winning artwork, as well as Gabrielle and our other Eighth District contestants for showcasing their artistic talents,” said Rep. Cravaack.

Tags: carlton county, art