Ryan Neal named OK-04 Winner of Congressional Art Contest

Washington, D.C. – Congressman Tom Cole (OK-04) congratulated this year's Fourth District winner of the Congressional Art Competition. Ryan Neal is the son of Sandy Travis and Charles Neal, art student of Melissa Mayo and a 2015 graduate of Duncan High School. His winning artwork, Detailed Metal, is a detailed drawing created with Prisma colors and inspired by the latest Transformers movie. It will be displayed in the Cannon Tunnel to the U.S. Capitol for a year.

Earlier this spring, high school students from across the nation were invited to enter the competition through their respective congressional offices. Entries for the Fourth District were judged by Dr. Victor Youritzin, Professor of Art History at the University of Oklahoma.

"Each time the House of Representatives hosts this national art contest, I am reminded that the Fourth District is home to many talented young artists," said Cole. "I was very impressed with Ryan's drawing and even more so when I learned that he spent a month working on it. The attention to detail is incredible and a sure testament to Ryan's passion for drawing. I look forward to seeing his artwork displayed in our nation's capital."

When asked about his choice of media for the winning piece, Neal explained, "I have always enjoyed drawing and really liked drawing with detail. I started off with just pencil and then used color. From there, it got better and better."

"I am very proud of Ryan for his accomplishments this year," said Mayo. "I have only been his AP Art teacher for two years, and he has grown so much as an artist, finding his artistic voice."

Photo of the winning artwork is available for download and media use here.

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