Local Teen Receives National Honor for Artwork
By: Kim Behrens
Updated: April 22, 2012
PEORIA--A Dunlap High School student's painting...inspired by the book, The Great Gatsby will soon be making its way to Washington D.C.
Sixteen year old Maya Jain is the winner of the annual "Congressional Art Show."
Its purpose is to give lawmakers a chance to meet with young artists and encourage their craft.
The event took place Saturday at the Peoria Public Library.
More than 100 pieces of student art were entered.
Jain says it's a great honor to receive the grand prize.
Her work will be displayed in the United State's Capitol for one year.
"I can't believe it's really happening!" said Jain. "I'm so honored that my piece is going to be in the capitol! My brother said, 'That's it, we have to take a trip to Washington D.C. so we can see it!"'
The congressional art show is in its 31st year.
Since the event began, more than 650,000 high school students have competed.
Sixteen year old Maya Jain is the winner of the annual "Congressional Art Show."
Its purpose is to give lawmakers a chance to meet with young artists and encourage their craft.
The event took place Saturday at the Peoria Public Library.
More than 100 pieces of student art were entered.
Jain says it's a great honor to receive the grand prize.
Her work will be displayed in the United State's Capitol for one year.
"I can't believe it's really happening!" said Jain. "I'm so honored that my piece is going to be in the capitol! My brother said, 'That's it, we have to take a trip to Washington D.C. so we can see it!"'
The congressional art show is in its 31st year.
Since the event began, more than 650,000 high school students have competed.
