Local Student Wins Art Competition With Powerful Tribute To History
Eden Smith of Paul W. Bryant High School has won the 2026 Congressional Art Competition as revealed by the office of West Alabama Democrat Congresswoman Terri Sewell. The announcement was made by Rep. Sewell at Ramsey High School in Birmingham.
The winning art well depicted the 2026 competition theme “Reflecting on Alabama's 7th: Where History is Made.” The Bryant High 9th grader, was awarded first place for her submission entitled "Baptist Church." The Baptist Church featured is the historic 16th Street Baptist Church in Birmingham, the emotional and spiritual center of the Civil Rights movement where four little girls died in a 1963 clan bombing.
The artwork features the iconic front entrance to the sanctuary with twin towers and pointed domes and a cupola over the sanctuary. Each entry was required to be original in concept, design, and execution and could not violate any U.S. copyright laws.
“We in Alabama’s 7th Congressional District are incredibly fortunate to have such talented young artists!” Sewell stated in awarding the 7th district winner. “Once again, I was truly amazed by all 36 submissions, and I am proud of every student who participated this year.”
Smith’s artwork will be matted, framed, and displayed in the U.S. Capitol in Washington D.C. for one year. She and a guardian will receive roundtrip airfare to Washington D.C. to attend the National Congressional Art Competition Reception.
The Congressional Art Competition was started in 1982 to provide an opportunity for Members of Congress from each congressional district to encourage and recognize the artistic talents of their young constituents. Since then, over 650,000 high school students have been involved with the nationwide competition. The competition is open to all high school students (grades 9 - 12).
More From Tuscaloosa Thread
