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KINGSPORT — Congresswoman Diana Harshbarger released the following statement announcing the First Congressional District of Tennessee’s winning entry in the 2022 Congressional Art Competition.

“I would like to extend a sincere congratulations to Kat Brickle for creating such an incredible piece of art! The time and talent that this young lady poured into this work of art is inspiring,” continued the Congresswoman. “Kat gets the awesome honor of having her art displayed in the U.S. Capitol Building for a whole year. I would like to thank and congratulate every participant in this competition, I can’t wait to see the successes that your passion for creativity helps you achieve.”

“This event would not have been possible without our wonderful judges — thank you for helping pick this year’s winner! Our art teachers and parents also deserve special recognition for encouraging our students to pursue talents that help make this country so beautiful,” said Congresswoman Harshbarger.

Kat Brickle is a senior at Gatlinburg-Pittman High School. Her winning artwork is an acrylic painted piece titled “The Only Free Place In America.” Her winning submission is a portrait depicting a place inside the King family library.

The announcement was made by Congresswoman Harshbarger at a public viewing of the art submissions.

East Tennessee high school students in grades 9-12 had the chance to enter a competition to have their artwork displayed in the U.S. Capitol Building.

The winning artwork of our district’s competition will be displayed in an exhibit for one year next to other winning pieces from across the country. The exhibit will also be featured on the House’s Congressional Art Competition page.

Each year, a team of independent judges evaluates the entries.

The Congressional Art Competition is an annual event and will reoccur in spring 2023.