Union County Teen Recognized in Congressional Art Contest

NEW PROVIDENCE, NJ — A New Providence High School was named as a runner up in the 2023 Congressional Art Competition, announced Rep. Tom Kean, Jr.

Bridgewater-Raritan High School Student Sharanya Ram won first place. Her piece, "In Your Eyes," will be displayed in the U.S. Capitol for one year. Winners are chosen by a panel of judges from the 7th Congressional District.

"It is a hyper-real snapshot of my eyes. I was thinking of the way loved ones may see me as I was painting this," said Sharanya Ram of her piece.

Selected as runners-up are Maggie Liu of New Providence High School for her piece, "Just Float" and Angela Xu of Bridgewater-Raritan High School for her piece, "Prism." These two pieces will be hung alternatively in Congressman Kean’s Washington, DC and New Jersey offices for a year. Three additional "Honorable Mentions" were also recognized by the judges.

"We have incredible homegrown talent in New Jersey and it was reflected in every submission our office received," said Kean. "Congratulations to our honorees and thank you to all the teachers, judges, and parents who supported the students, volunteered their time, and made this competition a success. All the artwork submitted truly reflects the creativity and passion within our community, and I am very proud to showcase such talented artwork in our nation's capital."

Rachel Heberling and Alicia Ferrell served as judges for this year’s competition.

Rachel Heberling is the Executive Director of Frontline Arts in Branchburg, where she directs the operations and programs, writes grants and oversees exhibitions, events, fundraising and membership with her creative staff.

Alicia Ferrell has been teaching art for more than 15 years and currently works as an elementary art teacher in Livingston.

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