I was the recipient of the first place award in the 2021 Congressional Art Competition. Concurrently, I won the People's Choice Award, as well. Above is the piece that I entered, titled "Essential'.
The following was my artist statement:
This is a black and white photograph of an essential worker going about her duties during the pandemic. The image was taken in Santa Barbara at the Stearns Wharf Pier in March of 2021. The Pier is a busy tourist attraction that draws visitors from around the nation, and relies on the efforts of essential workers to continue to function. The sacrifices of essential workers are critical to the economy of Santa Barbara; these individuals represent an invaluable part of the 24th District constituency.
The contrast and palette of the image highlight the reality of the hard working individuals that, while sometimes can be overlooked, drive the economic and cultural engine of Santa Barbara. The photograph also offers a layer of hope: the symbolic opening of the gate, while appears mundane, signifies, for me, the hope of recovery and continuation of normal life owing to the perseverance of this essential worker.