SC Oklahoma News

On May 21, 2024, Congressman Tom Cole (OK-04) announced the winners of the 2024 Congressional Art Competition for Oklahoma’s Fourth District. Katelyn Estes of Stratford, Oklahoma, was named the first-place winner. Estes, a student at Stratford High School under the tutelage of Shea Meyer, submitted a pencil drawing titled “Chasing Dreams.” The artwork features a detailed depiction of a horse with bridle, reins, breast collar, and saddle but no rider. This piece will be displayed in the United States Capitol Building for one year.

“I am thrilled to congratulate Katelyn on being selected as the Fourth District’s overall winner for the 2024 Congressional Art Competition,” said Congressman Cole. “Her pencil drawing is beautiful, unique, and incredibly detailed. Katelyn’s artistic ability is nothing short of amazing, and I am sure that she has a bright future ahead of her.”

Estes explained her inspiration: “I barrel race myself and love horses. My inspiration for this piece was actually one of my friend’s horses that recently passed away. He was a really pretty and great horse and I really wanted to honor him and draw a picture of him.”

“Katelyn is an amazing talent who works hard. I think she will go far,” said Meyer.

In addition to naming Estes as the winner, two runner-up winners were selected through a “People’s Choice” contest conducted via Congressman Cole’s social media channels. Out of nearly 750 votes cast online over a week-long period, artworks by Lillian Dai and Erick Suarez received the most votes. Their pieces will be displayed in Congressman Cole’s Oklahoma office for the next year.

“Every year, so many skilled high school students from across the Fourth District submit beautiful pieces of artwork for consideration for the Congressional Art Competition," said Congressman Cole. "While only one piece can be chosen to make its way to D.C., I think it is only right to recognize other talented artists by holding the People’s Choice competition. Congratulations to Lillian and Erick for being selected as this year’s second and third-place winners."

Lillian Dai from Norman North High School earned second place with her colored pencil drawing titled “Tornado is Coming.” The piece depicts her sister taking shelter underground from a tornado.

“It’s no secret that Oklahoma is one of the top states that see the most tornadoes each year," Dai stated about her work's inspiration. "My colored pencil piece captures this moment of nervousness about my little sister while the radio broadcasted the path of a tornado that touched down just 0.5 mile north of our neighborhood."

Norman North High School art teacher Sheila Hunter praised Dai's technique: "Anyone who's used colored pencils before can appreciate the time it takes to build up rich, burnished layers... We are all looking forward to Lillian continuing her art education.”

Erick Suarez from Purcell High School secured third place with his stick pastel painting titled “Old One,” depicting a Native American and an owl.

“My artwork is inspired by my uncle Oscar Howe," Suarez said about his submission. "I did the piece in honor and respect of him and my culture."

The annual Congressional Art Competition offers high school students nationwide an opportunity to showcase their creativity and talent. This year's first-place winner receives a trip to Washington, D.C., including two Southwest Airlines tickets and a $2,000 Visa gift card for use during their visit. The second- and third-place winners each receive a $500 gift card for purchasing art supplies.