Press Releases

WASHINGTON, D.C. - Congressman Abraham Hamadeh is proud to announce that Emily Chen, a sophomore attending school at home, is the winner of the 2026 AZ-08 Congressional Art Competition for her piece titled "United in Dreams."

Emily’s artwork will hang in the United States Capitol alongside artwork from other congressional districts across the country, where it will be seen by millions of visitors.

"Emily captured the true spirit of the United States of America in her work,” stated Congressman Hamadeh. “As I told her today, I look forward to sharing her art with visitors to our nation’s Capitol. They will be as inspired by it as I am.”

“As I was reviewing all of the artwork pieces submitted this year, I couldn’t help but have great hope for the future of our country,” stated Congressman Hamadeh. “If the young artists of Arizona’ 8^th Congressional district are any indication, then I have no doubt the future will be bright and beautiful.”

Emily describes her original acrylic painting depicting a mother and young daughter as, “a child learning about elements of U.S. culture and history that inspire and enable her to exercise creativity and imagination in her own life. The mom and daughter interaction represents the important values of family and education. The iconic images represent American ideals and achievements that encourage children to explore and realize their dreams.”

The 2nd place winner is Leighton S. Larson, a sophomore from Mountain Ridge High School, for his drawing " McDonnel Douglas F-15 Eagle."

The 3rd place winner is Phuong Nguyen, a sophomore at Basis Peoria, for his drawing "A Nation in the Making."

The 2nd place winner’s art will be hung in Congressman Hamadeh’s Congressional Office in Washington, D.C. and the 3rd place winner’s artwork will be displayed at the Congressman’s district office in Surprise, Arizona.