Linda Sánchez Announces Art Competition Winners (May 5, 2012)
Local High School Art to be Displayed in U.S. Capitol
La Mirada, CA – Today, Congresswoman Linda Sánchez (CA-39) announced the winners of her 10th Annual 39th Congressional District High School Art Competition. Vighnesh Iyer, a junior at Whitney High School in Cerritos, took first place with his piece titled, "Hopeful Eyes." Iyer's piece was inspired by his work with the non-profit organization Students Travel and Exposure South Africa (STAESA). Last summer, Iyer traveled to Ghana to help build an orphanage in the small village of Aflao. The children portrayed in the picture are still awaiting the completion of the orphanage. Iyer plans to return to Ghana this upcoming summer to help in the orphanage's construction.
Top Finishers:
1. Vighnesh Iyer, Whitney High School, "Hopeful Eyes"
2. Joshua Ray Sanchez , La Mirada High School, "A Modern Mind"
3. Michaela Zanoria, Mayfair High School, "A Place of Wonders"
Of 144 entries received, winners were selected by a panel of local art experts as the overall winner from seven artistic categories. Students from all over California's 39th District participated in the art competition.
Iyer will travel to Washington D.C. in June for the official awards presentation of all national winners. His winning piece will be on display in the U.S. Capitol for one year.
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