Congressman Meuser Announces Winners of the Congressional Art Competition
WASHINGTON — Today, Congressman Dan Meuser (PA-09) announced the winners of the 2025 Congressional Art Competition.
The first-place winner’s artwork will be displayed for one year in the United States Capitol alongside winning pieces from congressional districts across the country. The second-place entry will hang in Congressman Meuser’s Washington, D.C. office, where it will be seen by visitors from Pennsylvania’s 9th District. The third-place piece will be exhibited in the Congressman’s Pottsville District office.
2025 Congressional Art Competition Winners:
First Place: “Untitled” (The Barn) by Arianna Yule from Schuylkill Haven Area High School, 11th Grade
Second Place: “Untitled” (Mountain Scene) by Heidi Stone from Schuylkill Haven Area High School, 12th Grade
Third Place: “Untitled” (Chalet) by Sarah Tiver from Schuylkill Haven Area High School, 12th Grade
The judging process was conducted blindly—meaning students’ names and school affiliations were not shared at the time of selection. Only after the top three pieces were chosen was it revealed that all three winners attend Schuylkill Haven High School, a remarkable and unintentional outcome that speaks to the strength of the school’s art program, led by teacher Luke Ott.
Mr. Ott is a dedicated art educator and accomplished artist based in Schuylkill County. A graduate of Blue Mountain High School in 2004, he earned a bachelor’s degree in art education from Kutztown University in 2008. Since 2009, he has been teaching art at Schuylkill Haven Area High School.
In addition to his teaching role, Luke built a ceramic studio in his home where he devotes time to his artistic practice. His work has gained both national and international recognition, including exhibitions in the 2023 Strictly Functional Pottery National and the 2023 and 2024 International Juried Exhibition of Contemporary Fine Craft.
Luke Ott’s commitment to both education and art making informs and strengthens his professional practices. He seeks to inspire creativity and enthusiasm in his students by exemplifying the passion he brings to his own artistic endeavors.
“Congratulations to Arianna Yule on her first-place entry—your talent and creativity stood out among many strong submissions,” said Congressman Meuser. “It’s a tremendous opportunity to have your work displayed in the U.S. Capitol, where it will be seen by thousands over the next year. The Congressional Art Competition is a meaningful way to support and celebrate young artists, and my office always enjoys participating in this annual tradition. I also want to commend Heidi Stone and Sarah Tiver for their exceptional second- and third-place entries and thank all the students who took part this year. Special recognition goes to art teacher Luke Ott, whose impressive program at Schuylkill Haven High School continues to foster outstanding young talent.”
The Office of Congressman Meuser hosted an art show at the Walk In Art Center in Schuylkill Haven on April 24, 2024. Sixteen students from across Pennsylvania’s Ninth District participated in the event.
More information about the Congressional Art Competition can be found here.
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