Peoria Standard

Washington, D.C. – Congressman Darin LaHood (IL-16) recently hosted the 2024 16th Congressional District Art Competition, where the winners were unveiled. LaHood expressed his enthusiasm for the event, stating, “It was great to see so much energy and enthusiasm from students and teachers in this year's art competition, enabling students to express themselves through art."

The first-place winner of the competition was Maira Khan from Dunlap High School. Her piece titled ‘Port of View’ captured the attention of the judges and will soon be displayed in the halls of the nation’s Capital Building in Washington D.C. LaHood congratulated all the award recipients, particularly praising Khan for her outstanding achievement.

Other notable submissions included “Box of Wishes and Dreams” by Brooklyn Smith from Illinois Valley Central High School, which secured the second-place position. Additionally, several honorable mentions were awarded to talented artists from different schools:

- “Tunnel Vision” by Lauren Altorfer, Dunlap High School

- “Motor Garden” by Denia Rincón, Rochelle Township High School

- “Stone Streets” by Chloe Fabry, Brimfield High School

- “Dragonfly” by Annabelle Myong, Henry-Senachwine High School

The finalists were honored at a reception in Peoria, where the winner was announced and all the final pieces were unveiled. The artwork is currently on display at the Peoria Riverfront Museum and will be available for public viewing until April 28, 2024. Congressman LaHood was pictured alongside Maira Khan and her winning piece, which will soon find a place of honor in the U.S. Capitol.