‘Ghost Ranch’, oil painting by Regina Sikes.
Pagosa Springs High school senior Regina Sikes won first place in the 2023 Congressional Art Competition, for Colorado’s 3rd Congressional District, with her piece, Ghost Ranch.
Her artwork will be displayed for one year, along with other winning entries from around the nation, in the Cannon Tunnel to the U.S. Capitol, where Members of Congress and over 1 million annual visitors will see it as they enter the Capitol.
“I extend my heartfelt congratulations to Regina Sikes from Pagosa Springs, Colorado, on her well-deserved victory in the 2023 Congressional Art Competition,” stated Rep. Lauren Boebert. “Her masterpiece, ‘Ghost Ranch’, brilliantly captures the beauty of the southwestern skies and landscapes. Regina’s exceptional artwork will hang in the halls of the Capitol Building, where it will be admired by Members of Congress, U.S. Senators, and countless daily visitors who will undoubtedly be captivated by its beauty. On top of winning this year’s competition, Regina has also earned an honorable mention for her two paintings inspired by her great-great-grandmother. These will be displayed in my Durango Office.”
Regina and her family were invited to and attended an award ceremony and reception in the U.S. Capitol unveiling her artwork. The trip included free airfare for her and a family member as well as a full, exclusive tour of the Capitol Building by Rep. Boebert’s office.
The Congressional Art Competition began in 1982 to provide an opportunity for Members of Congress to encourage and recognize the artistic talents of their young constituents. Since then, over 650,000 high school students have been involved with the nationwide competition.
Congresswoman Boebert visited Regina’s family to see a mural that Regina completed at Pagosa Springs High School.
Rep. Boebert presented Regina with a Certificate of Congressional Recognition and a flag flown over the U.S. Capitol to honor her for her work serving the community with her art.