Each spring, the Congressional Institute sponsors a nationwide high school visual art competition to recognize and encourage artistic talent in the nation and in each congressional district. Since the Artistic Discovery competition began in 1982, more than 650,000 high school students have participated. Participating high schools submit students' entries to their representative’s office, and panels of district artists select the winning entries. All artwork must be submitted by art teachers to verify authenticity and confirm that it meets the guidelines of the competition.

Winners are recognized both in their district and at an annual awards ceremony in Washington, DC. The winning works are displayed for one year at the U.S. Capitol.

School administrators will be contacted directly with additional information about how students can apply. Interested students will be asked to fill out this form.