WARWICK, RI -- U.S. Senator Jack Reed (D-RI) today announced the winners of his 2009 High School Arts Competition, which he has held annually since 1991 to celebrate the artistic and creative talents of young people across Rhode Island.

Ann Phung, a sophomore at Cranston High School West, took top honors for her colored pencil work, "Being Koi." The second place winner is senior Vincent Lee of LaSalle Academy for his photograph entitled, "Pillar of Sand." Kristen Welch, a senior at Johnston High School, rounded out the top three with her painting, "Nostalgic Melancholy."

"I congratulate Ann and all the other talented students who entered the 2009 High School Arts Competition. I am pleased to have the opportunity to help showcase the hard work and creativity of these aspiring young artists," said Senator Reed. "Rhode Island is renowned for its art community, which has contributed immeasurably to our state's cultural heritage. This year's many outstanding entries will help maintain Rhode Island's longstanding tradition of artistic excellence."

This year's statewide competition drew 53 entries from 21 different public, private, and parochial high schools. Works were judged by an impartial panel that included Mary Jane Begin, Illustrator and Professor, Rhode Island School of Design, and Berge Ara Zobian, Gallery Director.

An opening reception for all participating students, their families, teachers, and school officials will be held this Sunday, May 31st at 6 p.m. in the Warwick Mall Food Court. The artwork will be on display in the Warwick Mall central foyer beginning today through June 5th. The exhibit is cosponsored by the Warwick Mall and Rhode Island Art Education Association.

Ann, Vincent, and Kristen will receive gift certificates provided by the Warwick Mall. All three winning pieces will be framed by Holland Galleries in Warwick and hung in Senator Reed's offices for one year. The first place entry will be on display in Senator Reed's Washington, DC, office to showcase Rhode Island's artistic talent to visitors from across the country. The second and third place winners will have their work displayed in the Senator's Cranston and Providence offices.

Honorable Mention awards were given to ten students, including: Cindy Santos, Cranston High School East; Ashton Alba, Coventry High School; Crystal Kusma, Coventry High School; Daniel Larsh, Johnston High School; Emily Hanoian, LaSalle Academy; Aemilia Techentin, North Kingstown High School; Victoria DeFazio, Pilgrim High School; Alex Wallace, Warwick Veterans Memorial High School; Michael Maglioli, West Warwick High School; and Emily Pichette, West Warwick High School.