• 2011

ArtPrize Grand Rapids

Grand Rapids, Michigan
$100,000

ArtPrize is an annual competition that invites applications from artists around the world to compete to exhibit their work in museums, businesses, restaurants, stores, parks, and other existing spaces within a three-square-mile area of Grand Rapids during a free, two-week festival. After all exhibitions are installed, the public votes on which artist should receive the $250,000 grand prize.

Now in its third year, the festival showcases the city's downtown neighborhoods, cultural institutions, and historic infrastructure, and provides a measurable economic boost for businesses. Local, regional, and international visitors interact with art of all media and discover unexplored areas of the city through pedestrian experiences and complementary educational programs. The Our Town grant will assist ArtPrize Grand Rapids in planning a stabilized fiscal operation for the festival for years to come. The event is produced in collaboration with the Urban Institute for Contemporary Arts, the Grand Rapids Downtown Development Authority, and several large sponsoring corporations.

Students view a balloon sculpture by artist Jason Hackenwerth at the Urban Institute for Contemporary Art. Photo courtesy of Brian Kelly Photography and Film

< Back to map |  2011 Grants List