Pasadena Memorial High School art student Stephen Alcala was recognized recently in Washington, D.C. as a 2010 Congressional Art Contest winner. Alcala's artwork is now displayed in the United States Capitol building.
Alcala, a 10th grade student, was the first place winner in Texas 22nd Congressional District, which is represented by Rep. Pete Olson. Alcala won the competition with his painting "With the West in Sight."
Two other Memorial students were runner-ups in the competition. The second-runner up was Sandra De La Rosa, who recently graduated. Her artwork will be displayed in Olson's Sugar Land office. The third runner up was last year's winner, 10th grade student Esteban Blanco. His artwork will be displayed in the congressman's Clear Lake office.
Each spring, a nation-wide high school arts competition is sponsored by the members of the U.S. House of Representatives. The Congressional Art Competition began in 1982 to provide an opportunity for members of Congress to encourage and recognize the artistic talents of their young constituents.
"I am so proud of the achievements of these students," said Shannon Raygoza, Pasadena ISD lead art teacher. "They are very talented and it is a reflection of the strength of the quality of instruction these students are receiving in Pasadena ISD.
