Early in May, we received the news that Christiana had won the Congressional Art Competition for the 23rd district. Our family is so proud of Christiana and her piece, Life of an Artist. We have asked her to share a little bit about her art, as well as her trip to Washington D.C. to attend the art reception honoring all of the winners from around the nation.
Congressional Art Competition 2017
Life of an Artist
Before I get started on all the amazing things we did on our trip, I should probably tell you a little bit about the piece that made this trip possible... Life of an Artist is a colored pencil drawing of Susanna, my little sister, waiting alone on stage with her cello. Now, you're probably wondering, of all the names out there why did I chose Life of an Artist? Well, whenever you put forth a new piece of art, you have opened up part of yourself, and in a way, walked onto a stage to be viewed by the world. Honestly, it can be a bit scary, and it is easy to feel alone. You wonder if people will understand what you are trying to tell them. Or if they will even appreciate the work and effort you put into making something beautiful. Ultimately, it shouldn't matter if people approve of your efforts. For me, as a Christian, the most important thing is that I use the gifts God has given me to bring honor and glory to Him.
Congressman McCarthy and Christiana in front of her piece at the Bakersfield reception.
It was a great privilege to be at the Bakersfield Congressional Art Competition reception. Congressman McCarthy's staff did an amazing job of putting it all together. They really put a lot of effort into honoring all of the winners!
Then it was off to D.C.!
The Jefferson Memorial
Daniel, Congressman McCarthy, Christiana, Carol, and Mike
Congressman McCarthy and his D.C. staff did a wonderful job of making our trip extra special, including VIP tours of the Capitol and Library of Congress!
On display in D.C.!
I had fun meeting other artists at the Congressional Art Competition reception, all the way from Florida and Kentucky to Arizona. My favorite part of the reception was getting to view the other winners' art!
Some of the other winning pieces.
This trip was all about art, of course...
And history...
Overlooking Gettysburg
With just a touch of music to keep Daniel happy!
The highlight of Daniel's trip was getting to see the Library of Congress' collection of violins, including several Stradivarius!
At the end of the trip, this is how we all felt...exhausted but satisfied!
~Christiana