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Payne, Jr.: Jennifer Martinez of Jersey City Wins 2017 Congressional Art Competition

May 16, 2017

NEWARK, N.J. – Congressman Donald M. Payne, Jr. (NJ-10) today announced that Jennifer Martinez of Jersey City Arts High School has been named the overall winner of the 2017 Congressional Art Competition for New Jersey’s 10th Congressional District.

Jennifer’s winning artwork, a drawing titled “Confidence of Fears,” will be displayed for one year at the U.S. Capitol for Members of Congress, staff, and visitors to enjoy. In June, Jennifer will have the opportunity to travel to Washington, D.C. to participate in a national ceremony with other winners from around the country.

“I want to congratulate Jennifer Martinez, the category winners, and every other student who submitted artwork in this year’s competition,” said Congressman Payne, Jr. “The creativity and talent of our local students is so impressive, and I can’t wait to see Jennifer’s drawing every time I walk to the Capitol.”

Thirty four students from 11 schools participated in the 2017 Congressional Art Competition. On May 15, Congressman Payne, Jr. held an awards reception at the Newark Museum to recognize the winners and participants, who each received a medal and certificate.

In addition to Jennifer, seven category winners were announced:

  • Fatou Ridgird of Newark Arts High School for Best Painting;
  • Akyla Butt of Dr. Ronald E. McNair Academic High School for Best Print;
  • Janielle Knight of East Orange Campus High School for Best Collage;
  • Rachel Lantigua of Newark Arts High School for Best Digital image;
  • Jazmin Vera of Newark Arts High School for Best Photograph;
  • Marcya Drigo of Orange High School for Best Mixed Media; and
  • Marcus Morales of Dr. Ronald E. McNair Academic High School for Best Drawing.

Since 1982, nearly one million students from across the country have participated in the Congressional Art Competition, sponsored by the Congressional Institute, which encourages Members of Congress to recognize and support the artistic talent of their young constituents.

CLICK HERE for more photos from the awards reception.

Issues:Local Issues