Bowling Green, KY – Congressman Brett Guthrie (KY-02) hosted an awards ceremony last night in Bowling Green, announcing the winners of the 2026 Congressional Art Competition. Tristan Sweeney claimed the coveted First Place Overall for his captivating artwork, "Midnight Masquerade." As the top winner, Sweeney's piece is now set to advance to the national competition, a standard honor for the Congressional Art Competition, with the potential for display in Washington, D.C.
The ceremony recognized a diverse array of artistic talent from across Kentucky's 2nd Congressional District. Following Sweeney's top honor, Blake Newton secured Second Place Overall with "The Space Between," while Ashley Banet earned Third Place Overall for "Aspire to be a Vulture."
Beyond the top three, the competition also highlighted other standout entries. Danika Brown's "Christmas Truce" was celebrated as the Facebook Favorite, reflecting public engagement with the competition. Additionally, honorable mentions were awarded to Shelby Hollis for "The Bird," Samantha Gex for "The Modern Knight," and Willow Romans for "Wrapped Up," acknowledging their exceptional contributions.
The event further celebrated local talent with specific county winners. From Butler County, Mae Givens was recognized for "Portrait Unveiling," Samuel Morris for "Jelly Fish," and Willow Romans for "Wrapped Up." Hardin County saw Emma Ryker honored for "My Favorite World." In Hart County, Ashley Banet received recognition for "Tardigrade Hare" and Jaxon Minor for "The Printing Mantis." Marion County's Blake Newton was also a winner for "The Space Between."
Muhlenberg County celebrated Kyleigh Daugherty for "Still Life of Glasses and Fruit," Damien Berkley for "Aphrodite," and Leila Carter for "My Old Kentucky Mason Jar." Ava Alford of Nelson County was recognized for "Red Cross Nurses." Lastly, Warren County featured Tristan Sweeney for "The Raven," Addyson Spencer for "Draped in Eternal Stillness," and Liam McDonald for "Harris Hawk."
The annual Congressional Art Competition provides a valuable platform for high school artists within the district, fostering creativity and offering a unique opportunity for their work to be displayed at a national level. Photographs from the reception are available on Congressman Guthrie's official website for public viewing.