Union Springs High School is proud to announce that senior Kailey Forbes has emerged as the winner of the highly competitive Congressional Art Competition.

The contest features artwork from throughout the 12-county 24^th Congressional District, but it was Forbes’ exceptional artistic skills and creative vision that have earned her this prestigious accolade presented by U.S. Rep. Claudia Tenney.

Using colored pencil, Forbes submitted a self-portrait titled “Duality.” Forbes said she spent time looking at herself in the mirror, which helped her gain the inspiration for the piece.

“I was confident I could win,” she said. “Mr. Charles actually submitted two of my pieces, so I felt like I had a good shot to win the award.”

After graduation, Forbes plans to go to St. John Fisher for nursing, but intends to continue her passion for art as a main hobby.

So, what would Forbes say to younger students who may consider taking art classes in the future?

“I would say absolutely take them,” Forbes said. “Especially getting to be with (high school art teacher) Mr. Charles. I think this award is just as much his as it is mine.”

Forbes became the fourth Union Springs student to win the award in the last seven years. With the win, Forbes’ piece will be on display in Washington D.C. for one year.