Two RCB Students Winners of 2026 Congressional Art Awards at State Culture Center at Capitol Complex
By Connect-Bridgeport Staff on March 02, 2026
Last month, six West Virginia high school students were honored as winners of the 2026 Congressional Art Awards at the West Virginia Culture Center at the Capitol Complex. The exhibit showcasing the award-winning work is now on display in the Balcony Gallery at the Culture Center.
Congresswoman Miller’s office was represented and announced the following award winners from Congressional District 1.
First Place:
Karman Raja, Grade 9
- Artwork title: Mainecoon Cat
- Medium: Graphite
- School: George Washington High School, Kanawha County
- Teacher: Christy Pennington
Second Place:
Gabrielle Chugha, Grade 12
- Artwork title: The Family Favorites
- Medium: Mixed Media
- School: George Washington High School, Kanawha County
- Teacher: Christy Pennington
Third Place:
Savannah Parker, Grade 12
- Artwork title: The Everlasting Chase
- Medium: Mixed Media
- School: Spring Valley High School, Wayne County
- Teacher: Sara Hager
Congressman Moore’s office was represented and announced the set of award winners from District 2.
First Place:
Elizabeth Conley, Grade 12
- Artwork title: Puppy Love
- Medium: Acrylic Paint
- School: Robert C. Byrd High School, Harrison County
- Teacher: Katherine Crim
Second Place:
Sophie Carpenter, Grade 12
- Artwork title: Monday’s Mood
- Medium: Colored Pencil
- School: Musselman High School, Berkeley County
- Teacher: Melissa Burton
Third Place:
Miyako Cole, Grade 12
- Artwork title: Busy in Blue
- Medium: Cut Paper
- School: Robert C. Byrd High School, Harrison County
- Teacher: Katherine Crim
Each March, Youth Art Month is celebrated at the West Virginia Culture Center by displaying outstanding, original works of art from young artists across the state. The winner from each congressional district will have their artwork displayed at the United States Capitol for one year in the Congressional Art Competition, as well as receive a $100 Blick Art Materials gift card. The first-place winners will be framed for display at the U.S. Capitol. Second-place winners will also be awarded a $50 Blick Art Materials gift card.
Editor's Note: Top photo is of Elizabeth Conly, while Miyako Cole is shown below. Cover photo is also of Conley.
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