A gallery of the finalists’ artwork in the Kaha Ki`i Second Congressional District Art Competition is now on display in the halls of the Hawaii State Capitol. Each spring, Rep. Tulsi Gabbard sponsors the contest to recognize and encourage creativity across Hawaii as part of a nationwide high school art competition with other Members of the U.S. House of Representatives.

Last week, Gabbard announced 13 finalists in the fifth annual competition; she also launched a “People’s Choice” contest on Rep. Gabbard’s Facebook Page where the public can select their favorite pieces.

“I encourage everyone in the community to check out the art being showcased by these gifted students from across the state of Hawaii—either see the pieces in person at the Hawaii State Capitol, or take a look on my Facebook page,” Gabbard said. “You will be impressed and inspired by their talent and creativity. Our annual Kaha Ki`i Congressional Art Competition is a great opportunity to recognize the creative abilities of Hawaii’s young adults and encourages them to further pursue their artistic talents.”

The overall winner of the district-wide competition will be announced on May 13 in a ceremony at the Hawaii State Capitol. The first-place piece will be displayed for one year in the U.S. Capitol alongside winners from all other congressional districts. The second-place and third-place pieces will be hung in Rep. Gabbard’s Washington, DC and Hawaii offices (respectively) for one year. All winners will be awarded with a cash prize.

The entry with the most likes, loves, and shares in the “People’s Choice” Contest on Facebook will be featured as the cover photo at the top of Rep. Gabbard’s official Facebook page, and the artist will win a cash prize; the deadline for the Facebook competition is Thursday, May 11 at 5pm HST.

The 2017 Kaha Ki`i Congressional Art Competition finalists include three entries from Maui students: “Wahine`Ume`Ume” by Chais Pascua, Grade 12, Baldwin High; “Hula Skirts” by Lacey Santos, Grade 12, Seabury Hall; and “Self Portrait” by Lillian Pickering, Grade 12, Seabury Hall.

The annual Congressional Art Competition is open to all high school students in Hawaii’s 2nd Congressional District.

Photo courtesy Rep. Gabbard’s office