Two Redmond students received honorable mentions for the pieces they entered in the 2017 Congressional Art Competition for Washington’s First District.

Redmond High School students Sarah Kimmerly and Chelsea Shu were recognized for their pieces, “Inspired Picasso” and “Wanderer,” respectively.

Congresswoman Suzan DelBene (WA-01) announced the winners at a reception at the VALA Art Center in Redmond Town Center.

Nate McGaw from Glacier Peak High School in Snohomish won for his piece, “Ballpoint Boy.”

Rebecca Robinson-Elmslie of Stillaguamish Valley Learning Center, Conner Barrett also from Glacier Peak and Emily Ramey from Blaine High School also received honorable mentions.

As the winner, McGaw’s piece will be displayed in the Cannon Tunnel of the U.S. Capitol in Washington, D.C., as part of a year-long national exhibition. He is also invited to join DelBene for the official unveiling of the artwork.

“I was incredibly impressed with the creativity and outstanding quality of work submitted by all of this year’s participants and I want to thank them all for sharing their talents with us,” DelBene said. “I didn’t envy the judges who had to make the tough decision.”

Local artists Ryan James, Brian Major and Dawn Laurant were the judges for the competition.

The annual Congressional Art Competition began in 1982 and involves thousands of high school students from across the nation. The local competition is open to all students in grades 9-12 who either reside or attend high school in the First District.

From left, Chelsea Shu of Redmond High School, who received an honorable mention in this year’s Congressional Art Competition, with Congresswoman Suzan DelBene (WA-01). Courtesy Photo