'Papa’s Farm' by Cashlynn Jaggers

MASSENA – A tenth grade student from Massena Central School has been named the New York 21st Congressional District winner of the 2014 Congressional Art Competition and will have her artwork shown in the United States Capitol Building.

Cashlynn Jaggers, who created the winning piece, “Papa’s Farm,” will have her work hang in the Capitol Building representing New York’s 21stCongressional District for the coming year, according to Congressman Bill Owens.

The 21st district covers all or parts of St. Lawrence, Franklin, Clinton, Essex, Hamilton, Herkimer, Lewis, Saratoga, Warren and Washington counties. It also includes the cities of Ogdensburg, Plattsburgh and Watertown.

Jaggers worked with Massena Central High School art teacher Chad Simpson to coordinate her entry of “Papa’s Farm” in the competition.

“I am so proud of Cashlynn. This unique accomplishment speaks highly of her talent and abilities,” Simpson said. “I am excited that she has been awarded this opportunity to share her artistic vision and represent her home region.”

A reception will be held for winners from each district in the Capitol Visitors Center in Washington, D.C. on June 26.

“The art submissions we received this year showed impressive skill and commitment from many young artists in our region,” said Owens.“Cashlynn’s work stood out among the many compelling submissions we reviewed and I look forward to seeing it displayed in the Capitol later this year.”

The Congressional Art Competition is a nation-wide high school art competition sponsored by the Congressional Institute to recognize and encourage young artists throughout the country.

One piece of original art is chosen to represent each congressional district for the year.

More than 650,000 high school students have participated since 1982 when the competition began.