Congressman Fong Announces 2026 Congressional Art Competition Winners

BAKERSFIELD, CA - This weekend, Congressman Vince Fong (CA-20) held a reception to announce the winners of the 2026 "An Artistic Discovery" Congressional Art Competition for high school students in our community. Students from across the district had the opportunity to submit a personal piece of art for consideration earlier this year.

The winner receives a trip to Washington, D.C. to the "An Artistic Discovery" exhibit opening and has their artwork displayed in the U.S. Capitol.

"The Congressional Art Competition highlights the extraordinary talent and creativity of students across our community," said Congressman Fong. "It's an honor to recognize the outstanding work of our local high school artists. Congratulations to all the finalists-and especially to Ava for her exceptional piece, 'Woman of Change and Warmth.' I look forward to seeing her artwork proudly displayed in the U.S. Capitol."

Rep. Fong extended his thanks to Andrea Hansen, CA-20's Community Coordinator, and the Arts Council of Kern for making this celebration possible. He also recognized the judges for supporting the next generation of artists: Felix Adamo, Don Martin, and Cheri Sperl.

Overall Winner:

Ava Lynch, 11th Grade, Bakersfield Christian High School, Paint- "Woman of Change and Warmth"

Art Teacher: Nate Watson

All Other Medium Category:

1st Place- Ruby Lizarraga, Centennial High School, Acrylic- "Birds in Paradise"

2nd Place- Jose Valencia, Buchanan High School, Watercolor- "Victory at Rest"

3rd Place- Danielle Caldera, Centennial High School, Pencil- "The Hands that Feed You"

Photography Category:

1st Place- Carlie Thomason, Buchanan High School, Photo- "Intertwined"

2nd Place- Iris Pruneda, Buchanan High School, Photo- "Ofrenda of the Heart"

3rd Place- Evan Nguyen, Buchanan High School, Photo- "Ready to Fly"

You can learn more about the Congressional Art Competition here.