Public invited to view artwork from across the state

Artwork from high schools across the state will be on full display at the Congressional Art Reception in Idaho Falls on Friday night.

The event is sponsored by U.S. Rep. Mike Simpson, who has been helping put on the reception since he was first elected to Congress. The theme for this year’s Congressional Art Reception is “My Heritage. My Future. My Idaho.” Simpson chose the theme because it gave students the opportunity to look back at the state’s past, but also be able to recognize that the future of Idaho is in their hands.

Over 100 pieces of artwork have been submitted from over 20 high schools in the state, including many from Eastern Idaho.

Community members and local leaders from the area will be in attendance at the Art Museum of Eastern Idaho. Guests include Simpson’s wife, Kathy Simpson, Mayor Rebecca Casper and the winner of the Congressional Art Reception, Olivia Harris, of Taylor’s Crossing Charter School.

Harris’ artwork, along with the winning artwork from students in other congressional districts, will be displayed in the U.S. Capitol in Washington, D.C. starting in June. The display will stay there for a year.

“It’s been a special thing to see the response from our area students and their excitement to participate in this competition,” said Brennan Summers, a member of Simpson’s staff. “It is a unique thing to have your artwork hung in the (U.S.) Capitol for every member of Congress to walk by, see and recognize what Idaho is all about.”

The event starts at 6:30 p.m. on Friday.