Concord Ledger

Concord, N.H. — On May 3, 2023, Congresswoman Annie Kuster (NH-02) hosted a reception for all students participating in the 2023 Congressional Art Competition. During the reception, Kuster announced this year’s winner, Qingning Wang of Bishop Guertin High School in Nashua. Wang’s artwork, “Kalopsia,” will be displayed in the U.S. Capitol building for one year. The reception was hosted at Kimball Jenkins School of Art in Concord.

“New Hampshire is home to some incredibly talented young artists, and it is such a joy and privilege to see their impressive collection of work,” said Kuster. “I want to thank each and every student who devoted their time and energy to create something beautiful and unique and for their willingness to share their creativity. I know this group will go on to do amazing things.”

“This piece is titled Kalopsia, the Greek word for seeing something as more beautiful than it actually is. It is essentially about taking ownership of your own life and realizing that escapism is only a temporary respite for the challenges you face. Around early high school, I struggled with circumstances in my life that weighed me down. At times, I felt that retreating into my own fantasy world was much more appealing than confronting reality, driving me into emotional and social isolation,” said Wang. “As I inevitably matured and grew into my identity, I realized that accepting personal obstacles is unavoidable for my happiness. However painful the emotional grievances that chain you, it is ultimately your burden to bear. I wish to impart the audience with the message to restore agency in your life by facing your trauma. Else wise, you may become the woman in the artwork that lives within a state of illusion.”  

The full list of submissions for the 2023 Congressional Art Competition in New Hampshire’s Second Congressional District is available here.

Original source can be found here.