Six different local high schools will feature 26 students’ photographs, watercolor paintings, ink prints and pastels in an art competition that lands the winner’s piece a one-year exhibition on Capitol Hill.

East Hall, Johnson and North Hall high schools, as well as Lakeview Academy, Maranatha Christian Academy and students of private art instructors will compete in the "Artistic Discovery: The Honorable Congressman Nathan Deal Ninth Congressional District High School Competition."

In addition to the winners showing in Washington, D.C., the first place artist will receive $300. Second place receives $200, third-place receives $100 and two honorable mention winners will each be awarded $50.

"It’s a very competitive show," said John Amoss, assistant digital art professor and director of the Roy C. Moore Gallery of Art at Gavinesville State College. He said the art competition is one of two local competitions geared toward high school art students, and provides an opportunity to showcase regional talent as well as high school art programs.

"It certainly increases the awareness of the programs and the high quality and dedication of both the students and the instructors," Amoss said. "It really increases a certain determination and skill level and also introduces them to being shown in a gallery."

Amoss added that the competition reminds high school students and their parents that art is a competitive craft that is appreciated in the community.

The photographs and paintings will be on display at the Roy C. Moore Gallery of Art at Gainesville State College until Dec. 7.

Gainesville State College President Martha Nesbitt will announce the winners of the competition at a closing reception at 5 p.m. Dec. 4 at the Roy C. Moore Gallery.

Another exhibit of student art, the "International Youth Art Exhibit," has moved from its display space at Milton Martin Honda into the Hall County Schools’ International Center. While it is not yet set up, the exhibit will be permanent and features work from students throughout Hall County schools. The exhibit features photography, sculpture, jewelry, mixed media, oils and pastels.