BEFORD, Ohio — A Cleveland-area teen has the honor of representing Ohio’s 11th Congressional District in the U.S. Capitol.

She’s not a politician, but an artist.

What You Need To Know

  • Nina Harvey won the 2022 11th Congressional District Art Competition

  • Her submission, “Seventeen,” shows what she felt like at that age

  • Harvey will attend the Cleveland Institute of Art in the fall

Nina Harvey's self portrait, titled “Seventeen,” won first place in the Congressional Art Competition for Ohio's 11th congressional district. Her art, along with winners from congressional districts across the country, will be displayed in the U.S. Capitol for one year.

Harvey, a senior at Bedford High School, said her winning entry was a reflection of how she felt as a 17-year-old, on the brink of adulthood.

Harvey said the inspiration for her piece came from how she felt as a 17-year-old, right on the brink of adulthood.

"There was this impending feeling of big things about to happen, but they weren’t quite there yet,” explained Harvey. “That’s why I titled my piece, ’Seventeen’, because there was just a lot to look forward to, but it wasn’t quite there. It was a very confusing state of mind to be in."

Rep. Shontel Brown, D-OH, announced the winner May 17. 

"As a new member of Congress, I was beyond excited to host my inaugural Congressional Art Competition this year," Brown said in a news release. "Even still, I was blown away by the talent, creativity, and depth showcased by the students who participated in this year's event."

Dolceanna Crosby of Richmond Heights won second place for her work titled "Cleaning Day," and Addison Weingart of Shaker Heights won third place for her submission, "Anemoia." They were among 34 students who participated in this year's annual art competition.

Harvey intends on attending the Cleveland Institute of Art this fall to study illustration.