SW Virginia News

U.S. Congressman Morgan Griffith (R-VA) expressed his congratulations to the winners of the 2024 Congressional Art Competition in Virginia’s Ninth Congressional District. Rishi Nair from Blacksburg High School claimed first place with his artwork titled Mabry Mill, which will be showcased in the U.S. Capitol in Washington, D.C.

In a statement, Griffith commended Nair, saying, “Congratulations to Rishi Nair on winning first place. His work is a marvelous display of this year’s theme, ‘Landmarks of Virginia’s Ninth District,’ and has earned a spot in the U.S. Capitol for all to see.” The Congressman also acknowledged the other talented participants, including Isabella Lawson of Richlands High School, who earned first runner-up with The Barter Theatre, and Katelyn Wheatley of Carroll County High School and Emily Paul of Blacksburg High School, who tied for second runner-up with their pieces Creek Crossing and Cascading Down respectively. Lawson, Paul, and Wheatley's work will be displayed in Griffith’s offices in Abingdon and Christiansburg.

Griffith further commented, “Throughout the Ninth District, we have so many creative and skilled students. I enjoy seeing their work showcased each year during the Congressional Art Competition, and I would like to thank all who participate.”

The picture accompanying the announcement features Katelyn Wheatley, Isabella Lawson, Congressman Morgan Griffith, Rishi Nair, and Kindle Conkin, the Corporate Communications Manager for Eastman Credit Union. Emily Paul, who also secured a place in the competition, was not pictured.

The winning pieces from the competition include Mabry Mill by Rishi Nair, The Barter Theatre by Isabella Lawson, Creek Crossing by Katelyn Wheatley, and Cascading Down by Emily Paul.

For any inquiries or issues regarding accessing photos, individuals are advised to contact Jackson Krug.