Gladstone High School art student Vanessa Arias won second place at the 32nd Congressional District Art Competition, “An Artistic Discovery,” on Saturday, May 7, earning her artwork a space in Congresswoman Grace F. Napolitano’s office in Washington, D.C.

The ninth grader’s submission – titled “The Best Way To Quit Is To Never Start” – was one of 187 art pieces submitted by students from nearly 20 high schools located in the 32nd Congressional District, governed by Congresswoman Napolitano.

“I am so proud of Vanessa Arias, whose art is thoughtful and reflective and indicative of the excellent fine arts program seen at Gladstone High School and throughout the District,” Azusa Unified School District Superintendent Dr. Linda Kaminski said.

First, second and third place winners were presented with congressional certificates and a small monetary prize for their work. Arias’ drawing, which took her three weeks to sketch with a pencil, depicts an elderly man smoking a cigarette. It is a piece that hits close to home.

“This drawing represents the struggle of an elderly man who wants to quit smoking but cannot,” Arias said. “I was inspired by my dad, because I want him to stop smoking.”

“An Artistic Discovery” is a national competition sponsored by members of the U.S. House of Representatives and the Congressional Institute. Since 1982 more than 650,000 students have participated in the art contest.

Students were asked to submit original art work created in the following disciplines: painting, drawing, collage, print, mixed media, computer generated art and photography.

“I am so excited for Vanessa, who has magnificent skills and a wonderful artistic intuition,” Gladstone High art teacher Theresa Hengehold said. “This is a tough competition, because there are so many great artists in the 32nd district. It is such an honor for her to be recognized for her brilliance.”

Photo Captions

ArtCompetition1: Congresswoman Grace F. Napolitano congratulates Gladstone High School freshman Vanessa Arias for her second place finish in the 32nd Congressional District Art Competition, “An Artistic Discovery,” on Saturday, May 7.

ArtCompetition2: Gladstone High School freshman Vanessa Arias took home second place for her art submission titled “The Best Way To Quit Is To Never Start,” at the 32nd Congressional District Art Competition, “An Artistic Discovery,” on Saturday, May 7.