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. Since the Artistic Discovery competition began in 1982, more than 650,000 high school students have participated. Students submit entries to their representative’s office, and panels of district artists select the winning entries. Winners are recognized both in their district and at an annual awards ceremony in Washington, DC. The winning works are displayed for one year at the U.S. Capitol. To participate, artwork must be submitted to Congressman Swalwell’s District Office (3615 Castro Valley Blvd in Castro Valley) no later than 5:00 PM on Friday, April 28, 2017. For additional information on the competition and the 2017 student guidelines visit www.house.gov/content/educate/art_competition.