WASHINGTON -- Young artists from Parishville-Hopkinton Central School and Colton-Pierrepont Central School are in the running as voting begins to choose the winner of the 2012 Congressional Art Competition.

“Signs of Spring,” a bird drawing, is Jessica Richards entry from Parishville-Hopkinton Central School.

“23rd Congressional” is from Jay Kepes in Colton-Pierrepont Central School

Their entries are two of the four finalists from the 23rd Congressional District, and people can see them and vote for their favorites at Rep. Bill Owens’ web site at http://owens.house.gov or go directly to the website’s voting page, https://owensforms.house.gov/Forms/Form/Default.aspx?ID=1957

Voting will be open through Thursday, May 3, and the winning artist will be announced the following day.

Artwork receiving the most votes will be displayed for one year as part of the national student art exhibition in the United States Capitol Building.

“This competition is a great opportunity for young New York artists to display their artistic gifts before a large national audience,” said Owens. “We have a tremendous amount of talent in the region, and I look forward to seeing a small part of the community displayed for millions in Washington.”

A reception will be held Wednesday, June 20 in Washington, D.C., honoring winners of the 2012 Congressional Art Competition.