Today, U.S. Congressman Michael Burgess (TX-26) announced that local artist Jo Williams of Denton created a holiday ornament that is currently being displayed on the White House Christmas tree. Ms. Williams was selected by Burgess earlier this summer to represent the 26th Congressional District.

Congressman Burgess noted that “Ms. Williams’ creation makes the 26th District proud.  She is an extremely talented artist.” 

Each Member of Congress was invited by the White House to select an artist to create an ornament that was specially designed to characterize the unique, patriotic spirit of their state, district or territory and complement a red, white, and blue color scheme. Ms. Williams, and other selected artists from across the country, were provided a 9 inch blank glass ornament.  They were requested not to reveal the holiday theme of “A Red, White & Blue Christmas” until First Lady Laura Bush unveiled the White House Christmas tree last week. 

Ms. Williams painted a Texas flag draped around the ornament as well as depicting two Texas symbols, bluebonnets and an armadillo in a fantastical red.  Mrs. Bush highlighted Ms. Williams’ ornament on “Good Morning America” as she showed off the White House Christmas tree, commenting that it was “Barney and Beazley’s (the Bush’s Scottish Terriers), favorite ornament…they love to chase armadillos when they’re at the ranch.”

Each artist was invited to a reception at the White House to see their artwork displayed on the towering 18 Fraser fir in the Blue Room.  Ms. Williams attended with her granddaughter, Zoe. “It was a thrill and a wonderful opportunity,” said Ms. Williams. “The White House was elegant and beautiful.”

Ms. Williams also served as the judge for the TX-26 Congressional High School art competition earlier this year.

To see Ms. Williams' ornament, please click the links below:

Ornament Image - Armadillo

Ornament Image - Bluebonnets

Ornament Image - Texas Flag

Artist Jo Williams with Ornament