U.S. Representative Dusty Johnson announced on May 6 that Cadence Micucci from Tea is the winner of the 2026 Congressional Art Competition for South Dakota. Micucci, a sophomore at Tea Area High School, created a mixed media artwork titled “The Original Soldier.” Her art teacher is Angela Kamps. The winning piece will be displayed in the Cannon Tunnel at the U.S. Capitol alongside other congressional district winners.
Second place went to Porshia Zimiga, a senior at Wall High School, for her work titled “A Whispering Dusk,” which uses white and black charcoal pencils and chalk pastels. Zimiga’s artwork will be exhibited in Johnson’s Washington, D.C. office.
“These two art pieces reflect the history and heritage of South Dakota,” said Johnson. “Congratulations to Cadence and Porshia – your art showcases your skills and creativity and will represent South Dakota well in Congress. I’m impressed with your work.”
The Congressional Art Competition is sponsored by members of the U.S. House of Representatives, with support from local partners such as the South Dakota Arts Council working with Johnson’s office to organize this event each year.
The competition began in 1982 as an opportunity for members of Congress to recognize artistic talent within their districts, according to information provided by Johnson’s office.
Johnson has served as U.S. Representative for South Dakota’s at-large district since 2019 according to Wikipedia.
