We are beyond thrilled to announce that Gorham High School senior Claudette Wesse has been named the 1st place winner of the 2026 Congressional Art Award for Maine’s First Congressional District!
Pictured above (L-R): Chris Crosby (Art Teacher), Sarah Dolley (Art Teacher), Claudette Wesse (center, with her winning art and announcement), Trisha Cherry (School Counselor), and Brian Jandreau (Principal)
Last Friday, Representative Chellie Pingree personally called the school to share the news. Claudette’s stunning painting, titled "Blissful Innocence," was selected from a pool of talented young artists across the district to represent our state at the heart of our nation’s democracy.
Claudette was recently celebrated by her art teachers and school leadership, as seen above, marking a momentous occasion for the Gorham High School community.
About the Artwork: "Blissful Innocence"
Inspired by her younger brother, Henschel, Claudette’s piece is a vibrant exploration of childhood. It uses bold color schemes and nostalgic motifs—like stick figures and sun-drenched corners—to capture a state of "perpetual happiness."
"The past cannot be replicated nor changed, but we can reflect on it... We move forward, we grow, and that’s the natural way of life. We should enjoy every moment of it and not take it for granted." — Claudette Wesse
From Gorham to the U.S. Capitol
As the first-place winner, Claudette’s journey is just beginning:
National Exhibition: Her painting will be displayed in the Cannon Tunnel of the U.S. Capitol for the next 11 months. This tunnel is the primary thoroughfare for Members of Congress and is viewed by millions of visitors each year.
Washington D.C. Celebration: Claudette and a guest will fly to Washington D.C. (courtesy of Southwest Airlines) on June 25, 2026, for the official Winners’ Celebration and awards ceremony.
We are incredibly proud of Claudette’s hard work, her artistic vision, and the way she represents the spirit of Gorham High School. Please join us in congratulating her on this historic achievement!