Hudson Announces 2026 Congressional Art Competition

Southern Pines, NC – Today, Congressman Richard Hudson (NC-09) announced that his Southern Pines and Fayetteville offices are accepting submissions from North Carolina’s Ninth District for the 2026 Congressional Art Competition.

“The Congressional Art Competition is a wonderful opportunity for our District’s high school students to showcase their artistic ability, and I look forward to seeing this year’s submissions,” said Rep. Hudson.

The 2026 theme, “America 250,” invites students to honor our country’s founding principles and the spirit of liberty that has shaped generations.

The 2026 Congressional Art Competition is open to all high school students from North Carolina’s 9th District. The overall winner of the District's competition will have their artwork framed and displayed for one year in the U.S. Capitol. In addition, the second and third place winners will have their artwork displayed in Rep. Hudson's offices.

Art entered in the contest must be original in concept, design and execution and may not violate U.S. copyright laws. Work cannot be copied from an existing photo or image that was created by someone other than the student. Work must be in its original medium and cannot be a scanned reproduction of a painting or drawing. AI-generated art will not be accepted.

Art does not need to be framed upon submission. Our office will frame the winning piece before it is sent to Washington, D.C.

Artwork that is potentially inappropriate for display in the Capitol will not be considered. This determination will be made by a panel.

Additional guidelines can be found by visiting: https://hudson.house.gov/services/art-competition. 

Artwork must be submitted to Rep. Hudson's Southern Pines or Fayetteville District Offices by 12pm on Friday, April 24, 2026 with a completed 2026 Student Release Form.

To request more information about the annual Congressional Art Competition, contact Rep. Hudson’s Southern Pines District Office at (910) 910-1924.