ArtPrize 2024: A Canvas of Competition in Grand Rapids
Come September, Grand Rapids transforms into a citywide art gallery and the streets fill with 700,000 curious visitors. Since 2009, ArtPrize has drawn artists from all over the globe, blending creative expression, a proud sense of community and intense competition.
A Brief History
ArtPrize was originally dreamed up by venture capitalist Rick DeVos, imagined as a “radically open, independently organized international art competition.” The city already had a strong creative legacy with world-class museums and resident artists, and its walkable downtown core was the perfect setting for an event of this scale.
After winding down post-Covid in 2022, ArtPrize is now back in action as a collaboration between the City of Grand Rapids, Downtown Grand Rapids Inc., and the Kendall College of Art and Design of Ferris State University.
What to Expect
During these two exciting weeks, you’ll discover art in every corner of the city, with designated pathways guiding you through five vibrant districts. Scattered throughout Grand Rapids, you’ll find works from established and up-and-coming artists in every medium – from paintings and sculptures to immersive installations and digital displays. Major venues like the Gerald R. Ford Presidential Museum and Grand Rapids Art Museum will showcase incredible installations. Don’t miss out on unique displays at local spots and outdoor spaces like Rosa Parks Circle and The Blue Bridge. Locals can even host an ArtPrize artist in their homes.
Join the Fun
With over 1,000 artists registered this year, there’s a lot at stake – more than $600,000 in grants and awards with winners selected by public votes and juried awards chosen by panels. This year, there are six categories: 2D, 3D, Time-Based, Installation, New Media and +Design. All artists and entries are eligible for voting throughout the entire event, a change from previous years when entries were narrowed down before final voting.
Kickoff Events
Mark your calendars for the multi-sensory opening party that will kickoff on September 13, 2024 at 6:30 p.m. Join one of three walking parades starting at:
- Fish Ladder Park (606 Front Ave. NW)
- Monroe Skate Park (555 Monroe Ave. NW)
- ArtPrize ClubHouse (61 Commerce Ave. SW)
All three parades will arrive at Pearl Street Bridge where eventgoers will be greeted with music, food trucks, back-to-back visual displays and more. The party will end with a surprise, one-of-a-kind unveiling – described as "a world-class spectacle making its U.S. premier" – followed by a spectacular fireworks show for all to enjoy. Find a full list of ArtPrize's scheduled events here.
Don’t Miss the Highlights
Catch the ArtPrize HalfTime Show on September 20, where the top 100 entries will be announced at Studio Park. Stick around for the ticketed AfterShow Party at the ArtPrize ClubHouse and the ArtPrize Closing Ceremony, the ultimate block party at Kendall College of Art and Design of Ferris State University where the winners will be announced.
Can’t make it to Grand Rapids for ArtPrize? There’s no shortage of annual cultural festivals throughout Michigan:
For more than 40 years, the Detroit Jazz Festival brings together the best of jazz, blues and soul in the world’s largest free jazz festival. Taking place over Labor Day weekend, this massive event spans four days and has six downtown stages.
Grand Rapids African American Art and Music Festival is a mid-September celebration of African American art, music and dance. Read more about the story of this iconic festival in “How Michigan Launched Musical Revolutions.”
Ann Arbor Art Fair draws half a million visitors over the course of three days in July. As one of the country’s largest juried art fairs, downtown Ann Arbor fills with works from over 1,000 artists from around the globe.
The Wyandotte Street Art Fair is one of the largest art festivals in Michigan. This July event draws over 200,000 visitors and 300 fine artists