Rocky Mount, NC —,Friday, April 18, 2025, creativity took center stage this weekend as Congressman Don Davis (NC-01) hosted the 2025 Congressional Art Competition awards ceremony at his Rocky Mount office. The annual event, part of a nationwide initiative by the U.S. House of Representatives, honors the artistic talents of high school students across congressional districts.
More than 30 students from North Carolina’s First Congressional District submitted original artwork this year, representing a wide range of schools and counties across eastern North Carolina. Families, teachers, and local leaders gathered for the event, which included a gallery walk, reception, and remarks by Congressman Davis.
“Celebrating some of eastern North Carolina’s best young artists was an honor,” said Congressman Davis. “These students have extraordinary talent. I am so proud to recognize their art and hard work. I can’t wait to watch them take their next steps—they are the strength of eastern North Carolina’s future.”
Top Honors Awarded
Valerie F.C. Jacobson, a homeschooled student attending Farm Life Country Day School in Martin County, took home first place for her piece “The Unbothered Sister.” Her artwork will be displayed in the U.S. Capitol for one year alongside other district winners from across the country.
Second place went to Addison R. Rich from Faith Christian School in Nash County for “A Forgotten Past.”
Third place was awarded to Reagan C. Greene of Greene Central High School in Greene County for “Cotton Fields.” Runner-up pieces will be displayed in Congressman Davis’ district offices.
Celebrating Diverse Talent
Students from 13 counties submitted work, showcasing themes ranging from personal identity to social commentary. Artwork was displayed at Rocky Mount Mills, transforming the historic location into a vibrant gallery of emerging talent.
Participating counties included Bertie, Chowan, Edgecombe, Greene, Halifax, Hertford, Martin, Nash, Northampton, Pasquotank, Vance, and Warren. Notable entries featured titles like “Liberty Betrayed,” “Ashes to Ashes,” and “Where the Sky Meets the Sea.”
Distinguished Panel of Judges
Judging this year’s entries were three leaders in North Carolina’s arts community:
- Emily Figueras – Award-winning artist and former Gallery Director of the Arts Council of Wayne County.
- Dara Silver – Senior Program Director at the North Carolina Arts Council.
- O’Neal Pullie – Retired art educator and screen-printing entrepreneur from Elizabeth City.
The judges praised the students’ originality, technique, and depth of expression. The competition, they noted, offers not only recognition but also encouragement for young artists to pursue their creative passions.
For a full list of participating students and to learn more about the Congressional Art Competition, visit www.dondavis.house.gov.
