Congressional Art Challenge
Each spring, high school students across the country participate in a nationwide art competition hosted by Members of the United States House of Representatives. In New Jersey’s 8th Congressional District, we are honored to spotlight the outstanding creativity of our local students. The Congressional Art Competition allows us to celebrate and showcase the remarkable artistic talent that makes NJ-08 such a vibrant and dynamic community.
The winning artwork from New Jersey’s 8th Congressional District will be displayed for one year in the Cannon Tunnel that leads to the United States Capitol, a tunnel walked by Members of Congress, staff, and visitors every day. The national exhibition in Washington, D.C. features winning submissions from participating congressional districts across the country. The selected artwork will also be showcased on the U.S. House of Representatives Congressional Art Competition webpage. Art Competition | house.gov
Submissions for 2026 are open.
All interested artists should submit a high-quality digital photograph of their artwork and a completed release form via email to artcompetitionnj8@mail.house.gov . Please use the following subject line in your email: “First Name, Last Name – School Name – 2026 Art Competition Submission.” The deadline for submission is April 13, 2026 at 8:00 p.m.
Selected students may be invited to present their artwork in- person at a district showcase, where entries will be reviewed and judged by Congressman Menendez and a panel of guest judges. Additional details regarding the in-person showcase will be provided to students who are selected.
The following is a summary of the Congressional Art Competition rules:
Any entry that has been copied from an existing photo or image (including a painting, graphic, or advertisement) that was created by someone other than the student is a violation of the competition rules and will not be accepted. Work entered must be in the original medium (i.e., not a scanned reproduction of a painting or drawing).
Questions about the competition or submission process? Please contact our Jersey City office at 201-309-0301. Thank you for your interest and participation. We appreciate your commitment and look forward to highlighting the remarkable talent within our district.
