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At the end of a long day of events Rep. Steny Hoyer (D: 5th) visited Leonardtown on Friday to honor participants in the 2012 Fifth District Congressional Art Competition. The visit was part of a reception at the Leonardtown Arts Center. The annual contest gives students a chance to have their artwork displayed for a year in the U.S. Capital.

Hoyer called art “the universal language.” He said it is one of Americas biggest exports, appreciated around the world.

“The annual Fifth District Congressional Art Competition is a wonderful opportunity to highlight the exceptional talent of Fifth District students,” Hoyer said. “Each and every participant submitted outstanding artwork, and I’m pleased to see the dedication and creativity that went into each piece.”

“Throughout my career, I’ve been a strong advocate for the arts in our communities, especially in our schools as they serve a critical role in the learning and development of our students,” continued Congressman Hoyer. “I’d like to thank the selection panel for reviewing the artwork submitted, and congratulate this year’s winner Victoria Wolf on her artwork that will represent the Fifth District in the Capitol this year.”  

Earlier this year, Congressman Hoyer sent letters to all of the high schools throughout the Fifth District announcing the Congressional Art Competition and outlining the rules for artwork submission. A selection panel comprised of members of the Fifth District arts community – including art teachers and professional artists – reviewed each submission before selecting artwork by Victoria Wolf of Calvert High School in Prince Frederick to represent the Fifth District. Victoria’s artwork, entitled “In the Hands of Liberty,” will be on view in the Capitol for one year along with the winning entries of Congressional Art Competition contests from districts throughout the country.

Also on hand for the reception were members of the Leonardtown Arts Center board of directors and artists who display at the gallery, their landlord Mayor Dan Burris, and Judge David Densford.