Bridgeport, CT –At an art show at Housatonic Community College this evening, Congressman Jim Himes (CT-4) announced that Sarah Hafey of Fairfield is the first place winner of this year’s 4th District Congressional Art Competition. As winner, Sarah will attend a ceremony in Washington, DC this spring, and her photograph will be displayed in the Capitol along with winners from all 50 states. The competition was judged by an independent panel of artists and Hafey’s submission was selected out of a group of over 50 pieces of art. Sarah attends the Hyde School in Woodstock  and won with a photograph titled “The Audition.”

“Congratulations to Sarah and the other winners,” said Himes. “The arts provide an unparalleled opportunity to develop creativity and expressive skills, and I urge all of these young artists to continue to pursue their artistic interests.”

Ryan Crudgington of Fairfield (Fairfield Warde High School) placed second with his piece entitled “Cat.” Vivian Dai of Stamford (Stamford High School) and Kiera Wood of Redding (Green Farms Academy) tied for third place for their pieces entitled, “Greased Lightning,” and “Moroccan Leather,” respectively.

The Congressman extends his thanks to judges:

Paul Master-Karnik -Executive Director Greenwich Arts Council,
Paul Mindell – finalist in the Outwin Boochever Portrait Competition 2009 and resident of Norwalk. His work is on display in the National Portrait Gallery
Leslie Nolan - Executive Director of the Center for Contemporary Printmaking in Norwalk
Jacqueline Lightfield – Chairman of the Norwalk Arts Commission.

Pictures will be available upon request tomorrow.