California First District Opens 2026 Art Competition

High school students can submit artwork for national display in the U.S. Capitol.

Published on Feb. 27, 2026

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The Office of California's First Congressional District has opened the 2026 Congressional Art Competition to high school students across the district. This year's theme is 'America, a 250-year Celebration of Liberty.' The winning artwork will hang for one year in the U.S. Capitol alongside entries from other congressional districts nationwide.

Why it matters

The annual competition offers high school students in the First District an opportunity to present their work at the national level, showcasing their artistic talents and celebrating America's 250th anniversary of independence.

The details

Students can find guidelines and entry details at forms.house.gov/services/ca01-art-competition. The deadline to apply is Friday, April 10. The program will continue following the recent passing of Rep. Doug LaMalfa.

  • The 2026 Congressional Art Competition is open now.
  • The deadline to apply is Friday, April 10, 2026.

The players

Office of California's First Congressional District

The office overseeing the 2026 Congressional Art Competition for high school students in the First District.

Rep. Doug LaMalfa

The recently deceased representative of California's First Congressional District, whose legacy will continue through the art competition.

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What’s next

High school students in the First District have until April 10, 2026 to submit their artwork for the competition.

The takeaway

The Congressional Art Competition provides a valuable platform for high school students in California's First District to showcase their artistic talents and celebrate America's 250th anniversary of independence.