Senior Meredith Grotto will be recognized at the 2024 Congressional Art Competition in California’s 5th District art show this Friday, May 3 in El Dorado Hills. “Braiding Hair” by Meredith Grotto received an Honorable Mention for her accomplished oil painting, which also earned a first place and Best in Show 2D award last month at the Calaveras Art Council’s ArtSpirit student art show.
“[Braiding Hair] shows the beauty in something as raw and simple as braiding hair. The black and white colors enhance the mood of the painting by taking away any form of color and adding contrast to the transparency of the braiding,” shared Grotto. In addition, “The biggest inspiration for this piece is my native culture, trying to find even more beauty in the meaning of a Native American’s hair. Hair can hold stories and history, so I hope to convey the weight of the memories through this art.”
Hosted by Congressman Tom McClintock, the art show will provide an opportunity for all student participants, families, teachers, and judges to celebrate the student artists, which will be introduced and offered the opportunity to speak. California’s 5th Congressional District spans from El Dorado to Fresno Counties, and includes Modesto to Yosemite. “Each spring the Congressional Institute sponsors a nationwide high school visual art competition to recognize and encourage artistic talent in the nation and in each congressional district. The winning entry from each congressional district across the United States is displayed for one year in the Cannon Tunnel of the U.S. Capitol.” – Tom McClintock US Congressman