Art enthusiasts gathered on April 10 to celebrate student creativity at the Chester County High School Art Exhibition and PA 6th District Congressional Art Competition reception. Held at the Chester County Art Association in West Chester, the exhibition showcased nearly 500 works – including sculptures, oil paintings, colored pencil pieces, and photography – created by students from across Chester County.

“We were proud to showcase the extraordinary talent of Chester County's high school students in this year's art exhibition,” said Kathy Gurnee, special events coordinator for the Chester County Intermediate Unit (CCIU). “The diverse range of mediums and the creativity on display truly reflect the hard work and passion these young artists bring to their craft.”

Students from the 6th Congressional District participating in the exhibition were also eligible to submit their artwork to U.S. Rep. Chrissy Houlahan's Congressional Art Competition. This nationwide program, sponsored by U.S. House members each spring, awards the grand prize winner with the honor of having their artwork displayed in the U.S. Capitol for one year.

The public reception and awards ceremony marked the highlight of this year's exhibition, honoring the numerous student artists whose work was selected for display. Awards were presented for both Representative Houlahan's Congressional Art Competition and the Chester County High School Art Exhibition, which was judged by the Chester County Art Association.

Jordan Wolfe of Exeter Township Senior High School was one of the students recognized during the reception, winning second place in the PA 6th District Congressional Art Competition. Her piece, titled A Contrast of Symbolism, will be proudly displayed in Representative Houlahan’s local office for one year.

“I’ve always loved art and I am so happy!” said Wolfe. When asked how it feels to have her artwork recognized in the competition, she answered, “Amazing! I never imagined myself in this situation, especially when I was younger.”

Wolfe continued with, “It’s empowering and inspirational to see how far I’ve come from when I started,” explaining that receiving an award for her art has validated her skills.  As an aspiring artist, Wolfe’s creative path has just begun. After graduating from high school, she plans to attend Millersville University for graphic design.

When asked what advice she would give to young artists who want to compete in future art competitions, Wolfe’s answer was both simple and inspiring: “Don’t give up and be yourself!”

In addition to Wolfe, the competition also recognized Chayanant Leelasanti of Phoenixville Area High School in first place and Keara Schott of Coatesville Area Senior High School, who placed third. As first-place winner, Leelasanti’s piece, titled Self Portrait, will be displayed in the Capitol building for one year. Schott’s piece, titled Foreshadowed Fate, will be displayed in one of Representative Houlahan’s local offices.