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Pittsburg high school graduate selected as congressional art competition winner

Leo Norman at the Congressional Art Competition in Washington, D.C. on June 25
Leo Norman
Leo Norman at the Congressional Art Competition in Washington, D.C. on June 25

His art is being displayed in the U.S. Capitol for a year

Pittsburg High School graduate Leo Norman’s art is being displayed at the U.S Capitol Building. He was the winner of the Congressional Art Competition for District 2.

Norman grew up in Pittsburg, and his artwork represents a train that runs through the town near his home. He wanted the painting to represent ‘something that felt like home.’

“I always have loved watching trains,” Norman said. “It does mean a lot to me, and like Pittsburg as a whole. It really feels like it encapsulates our community.

"BNSF 9158" by Leo Norman
Leo Norman
"BNSF 9158" by Leo Norman

The competition started in 1982 by the House of Representatives as way to

to provide high school students the opportunity to showcase their artistic talents.

Norman’s art was selected by congressman Derek Schmidt as the winner of the 2nd Congressional District, which covers the eastern portion of the state. Norman said it’s an honor to be selected.

“I know lots of artists here in our district,” Norman said. “And it feels really special to be the one that’s chosen.”

Norman was also flown to Washington D.C where he and other district winners attended a special reception for their artwork.

“Seeing my piece up there and seeing everyone else's pieces,” Norman said. “You just got to see a huge range of diversity among the types of arts and the focus of the arts. It was really special.”

Norman's artwork along with the 435 other art pieces selected is displayed in the Cannon Tunnel in the U.S. Capitol where it will stay for a year.

Copyright 2026 KRPS. To see more, visit Four States Public Radio.

Luke Geier is a fall 2026 reporting intern for KRPS. He is a recipient of the Thomas E. and Linda Beal Broadcasting Scholarship Fund. Originally from Olathe, Kansas, he’s a junior at Pittsburg State University, studying Media Production, and has previous journalism experience working for Pittsburg State’s student publication, “The Collegio.”