SPRINGFIELD, IL — Today, Congresswoman Nikki Budzinski (IL-13) announced the winners of the 2026 Congressional Art Competition for Illinois’ 13th Congressional District. This year’s overall winner is Charlotte Lin of University Laboratory High School for her piece, “Liminal.” To watch a video of the Congresswoman’s announcement and to view the winning artwork, click HERE.
“The artistic talent and creativity of students across Central and Southern Illinois never cease to amaze me,” said Congresswoman Budzinski. “This competition gives high school students an opportunity to showcase their work on a national stage while celebrating and encouraging the next generation of artists. I’m thrilled to recognize this year’s outstanding winners, especially Urbana’s very own, Charlotte Lin, and look forward to welcoming visitors to the Capitol and our district offices where they can enjoy these remarkable works of art on display.”
Runner-Up Winners
- Mackenzie Shirley — Belleville East High School
- Amelia Drews — Springfield High School
- Amiya Williams — Belleville West High School
Special Recognition Award
- Victor Holt — Springfield Southeast High School
The overall winning artwork will be displayed for one year in the United States Capitol alongside artwork submitted by students from congressional districts across the country. Runner-up pieces will be displayed in the Congresswoman’s Illinois district offices throughout the coming year. Established in 1982, the Congressional Art Competition is a nationwide visual arts competition sponsored annually by the United States House of Representatives. Each participating congressional district selects one winning artwork to be displayed in the Cannon Tunnel of the U.S. Capitol for one year.
