05/21/2025
Highlands High School senior Carrah Scardina has been selected as one of the 17 state winners for the 2025 Congressional Art Competition. She will have the distinct honor of having her artwork, American Beauty — a hand-painted rose on silk fabric— exhibited in the United States Capitol for one year.
“For my painting, I chose the American Beauty Rose, the official flower of our nation’s capital. This classic fuchsia rose captures the essence of America, and my passion all in one. This unique medium of silk painting helped me discover more techniques I love in art," said Carrah.
Congressman Chris Deluzio's office received numerous submissions from talented high school students across Pennsylvania's 17th Congressional District. "The creative energy of these students is inspiring," said Congressman Deluzio. "I’m grateful to everyone who submitted their work and put their imagination on display for all of us to see. Congratulations to Carrah Scardina and the other 2025 winners of the Congressional Art Competition across the country. I look forward to seeing their art displayed in the Capitol when I’m down in Washington for votes this year!”
Carrah will be honored this summer at an event in Washington, D.C., alongside the other art competition winners from congressional districts nationwide. All the winning artwork will be displayed in a gallery located in one of the busiest corridors of the U.S. Capitol Complex, allowing Members of Congress and visitors from around the country to appreciate the student talent.
"Thank you to Congressman Deluzio for the honor of picking my art to be displayed in the U.S. Capitol—it inspires me to keep creating and exploring my passion for art," said Carrah.
A special thank you to High School Tech Ed teacher Mr. Matt Stiff for generously donating his time and talents to create a beautiful cherry wood frame that showcases her silk painting. Carrah's High School art teachers include Mrs. Teresa Emeloff, Mrs. Renae Yoder and Mrs. Lauren Hartner Overmier.
Carrah and her mother, Sarah, joined hundreds of other young artists from across the nation in June at the U.S. Capitol for a ceremony to celebrate their achievements and to see her art displayed in the halls of the Capitol Building. At the ceremony, the Congressman was glad to welcome a guest speaker from Western PA to share an inspirational message: Christine Brondyke, Executive Director of the Sweetwater Center for the Arts.
