Westfield Student Honored In Congressional Art Competition

WESTFIELD, NJ — A Westfield High School student has been recognized in the 2026 Congressional Art Competition for New Jersey’s 7th Congressional District.

Congressman Tom Kean Jr. announced Monday that Vivien Xu of Westfield earned runner-up honors for her acrylic painting, Our Worker, as part of this year’s competition themed “Celebrating America’s 250 Years.”

According to Kean’s office, Vivien’s artwork will be displayed on a rotating basis in the congressman’s New Jersey and Washington, D.C. offices throughout the year.

“This year, the Congressional Art Competition highlights the next generation of artists,” Kean said in a statement. “Our district’s winners brought the spirit of our nation’s 250th anniversary to life through their artwork.”

The competition’s top prize went to Kaylie Gao of Warren for her painting Allegiance. Her artwork will be displayed in the U.S. Capitol for one year.

Another runner-up, Mia Li of Warren, was also recognized in the competition.

Congressional officials said winners were selected by a panel of judges based on artistic skill, originality, visual appeal and design.