Workhouse Arts Center Recognizes Rising Talented Artists

On Saturday, April 13, the Workhouse Arts Center welcomed high school students and families from the 11th Congressional District to the public opening ceremony of the Annual Congressional Art Competition in the McGuireWoods Gallery. With 144 pieces submitted by 111 artists representing 23 high schools, this unique competition allows Members of Congress to recognize upcoming talented artists in the community and encourage the youth to pursue their passion.

Chairman Richard Hausler and Congressman Gerry Connolly showed their support for this competition by speaking to the students and their families about the value of the arts. Congressman Connolly emphasized the importance of “doing what you love. Art is a great pursuit,” and this competition made great efforts to be inclusive, for all high schools to be recognized for their rising talents.

Artists Lynn Goldstein and David Nguyen inspired the students to continue their artistic journeys by giving insight to their personal career paths. Goldstein admits that it’s “hard work but one of the most rewarding jobs.” She reminds students that in order to succeed, “You just have to go for it. There is stiff competition out there, but you just need to go for the prize, and that prize is leading up to a great life.” Graphic designer Nguyen told the students that it’s never too early to get started and wishes the best of luck to their futures.

While Brett John Johnson, Director of Visual Arts, stressed that “it was a very difficult process” determining the awards, five winners were announced at the opening ceremony, and for the first time the Workhouse Arts Center granted one other artist a Rising Star Award for demonstrating exceptional artistic potential. The winners are:

First place: Olivia Jones, Fractured, South County High School

Second place: Hyung Jun Suh, Red Chair, Emmanuel Christian School

Third place: Christopher Aponte, My Abstract Dreams, Robinson Secondary School

Fourth place: Karla Pacherco, Little Wonders, Woodbridge High School

Fifth place: Jacqueline Yofi Edwards, Control, The New School

High School Rising Star Award: Marziyeh Yazsanpanah, for Guilty for Being Different, Falls Church High School

While some winners were unable to attend the ceremony, their teachers showed full support by being present to receive their student’s honors. Robert Christie, first place winner Olivia Jone’s art teacher from South County High, said “I could just see the sense of accomplishment on Olivia’s face when she finished [the work], and when I suggested that she submit her piece into the competition, her face lit up again.” He encourages all kids to take classes and for parents to give full support to their art communities. As an honor for receiving first place, Jones’ work will be displayed in the U.S. Capitol for one year along with all other first place winners from each district.

In response to receiving third place, Christopher Aponte let out a “Wow. I liked all the other art works and I’m just really excited to be a part of this.” Fifth place winner Jacqueline Yofi Edwards said that she was really happy she won. “It’s so rewarding to see so many people trying. There are a lot of really good artists here.”

Fourth place winner Karla Pacheco couldn’t believe that she was chosen but was really glad for the opportunity. “There are so many good pieces and it’s kind of intimidating. I would look at other people’s pieces and then I would look at mine and I wouldn’t even think of being picked. When I was getting called on I was so surprised.” Pacheco is excited that the community is funding the arts. “There can be a lot of pressure working with artists, such as doubts and the idea of starving artists.” She acknowledges that this opportunity allows her to talk to more people, giving her multiple perspectives and to help grow her career.

Congressman Connolly applauded all the participants and says even if they didn’t win, the selected pieces represent all the art and talent present in this community. Chairman Hausler commended the students for being part of a “thriving education center for hundreds of artists,” and told them not to forget their early days at the Workhouse when they become famous in their bright futures. Congressman Connolly’s last words for the students: “Continue your passion and continue contributing.”

Did you miss us at the public opening ceremony? Come see all the talented works submitted to the Annual Congressional Art Competition at Workhouse Arts Center from April 13 to May 26 in the McGuireWoods Gallery. Want to show some love for the exhibition and the participants? Comment below and share your thoughts!

THIS WEEK AT THE WORKHOUSE

• Annual Congressional Art Competition, April 12-May 26 in the McGuireWoods Gallery.
• Standing Room Only, April 20-June 16 in the Vulcan Gallery.
• Our Natural Places, aka OUTDOORS, April 13-June 16 in the Vulcan Gallery.
• Workhouse Farmers Market, every Thursday 3-6pm on the Workhouse Quad.
• Cinderella: The True Story, Children’s Theater on Saturdays at 1pm, March 30-April 27 in the W-3 Theatre.
• Cecil Ray Comedy Club on Saturday, April 20 at 7pm in the W-3 Theatre.
• Ballroom Social Dance on Saturday, April 20, 7:30-10:30pm in the McGuireWoods Gallery.
• Date Night: Chef’s Table on Saturday, April 20 at 8pm in the Vulcan Gallery.
• April exhibitions in all seven studio buildings, Vulcan Gallery.
• Workhouse Prison Museum in Building W-9.

Stop by and visit us! 

The Workhouse is open Wednesday – Saturday from 11am – 7pm and Sundays from 12 – 5pm.  TheWorkhouse Prison Museum is open Wednesday – Friday from 12 – 3pm and Saturday – Sunday from 12 – 4pm.  Visit www.WorkhouseArts.org for more information, to purchase tickets or to register for classes.