Robinson Secondary Student Takes Third at Annual 11th District Congressional Art Competition

Christopher Aponte, a student at Robinson Secondary School, took home third place for his piece “My Abstract Dreams” at U.S. Rep. Gerry Connolly's annual Congressional Art Competition.

Aponte's piece will hang, along with others, in the U.S. Captiol this summer. Until then, however, you can see it and 143 other pieces at the Workhouse Arts Center until May 26.  

“I encourage everyone to spend some time at the Workhouse Arts Center to view these works of art and enjoy the creativity of these talented high school students,” Connolly said at the Workhouse.  “The record number of entries in this year’s competition reflects the high level of interest in the fine arts among Northern Virginia students and the dedication of our arts teachers and patrons to encouraging artistic skills in our high schools.” 

The Winners: 

• 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 Pacheco, “Little Wonders”, Woodbridge High School
• Fifth Place: Jacqueline Yofi Edwards, “Control”, The New School of Northern Virginia 

There were 111 students from 23 local public and private schools from Fairfax and Prince William Counties in the 11th Congressional District who participated in the competition. 

“This exhibition is important to the Workhouse, as it gives us an opportunity to showcase the rising artistic talent in our community," said Richard Hausler, Board Chair of the Lorton Arts Foundation. 

Judging was conducted by Emily Hawes of the Prince William Art Society, Patricia Macintyre of the Council for the Arts of Herndon, Hollis Coons McCullough of the Greater Reston Arts Center, Brett John Johnson of the Workhouse Arts Center and Rebecca Kamen of the Arts Council of Fairfax County.  

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