ArtPrize is an annual, international art festival and competition in Grand Rapids, Michigan—a celebration of creative ideas, conversations, experimentation, and inclusiveness. ArtPrize 2023 is free and open to the public, featuring visual and experiential Artists who’ve connected with Venues eager to host their work. From September 14–October 1, art will be exhibited in galleries, storefronts, parks, museums, breweries, public spaces, and other Venues of all kinds.
Fourteen years since its founding, ArtPrize continues to evolve, led now by a new public/private partnership among the City of Grand Rapids, Downtown Grand Rapids, Inc. (DGRI), and Kendall College of Art and Design of Ferris State University (KCAD). For 2023, we’re providing more Artists opportunities through the Visibility Awards, presented by MillerKnoll, and expanded grant offerings. And we’re recommitted to the things that made ArtPrize a phenomenon in the first place: amazing art, public voting, big prizes, dynamic events, tons of people, and abundant joy.
ArtPrize 2023 Event Line Up:
Opening Celebration
Where: Ah-Nab-Awen Park
When: September 14, 5–9 p.m.
Where: Ah-Nab-Awen Park
When: September 14, 5–9 p.m.
ArtPrize is back, and we’re kickstarting this year’s event with a vibrant opening celebration. The park will transform into a multisensory feast with games, food trucks, art installations, fireworks, and a performance by Squonk.
Sponsored By: Wolverine Worldwide & DeVos Place
ArtPrize Oasis
Where: 555 Monroe
When: September 14–October 1, 12–8 p.m. daily
Where: 555 Monroe
When: September 14–October 1, 12–8 p.m. daily
The ArtPrize Oasis is a transformative urban expanse providing a place to regroup and recharge. Designed by TBG Partners, it features games, seating, and art installations presented by the Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park and DGRI.
Sponsored By: Corewell Health and Priority Health
Honda “Paint My Ride”
Where: Monroe Center near Rosa Parks Circle
When: September 14–17
Where: Monroe Center near Rosa Parks Circle
When: September 14–17
Honda partners with Kendall College of Art and Design to showcase talented students painting on Honda vehicles during the opening weekend. On September 29, each finalist will receive $1,500 for their artistry.
Sponsored By: Honda Dealers of West Michigan
SmartArt Celebration at Studio Park
Where: Studio Park
When: September 17, 12:00-2:00 p.m.
Where: Studio Park
When: September 17, 12:00-2:00 p.m.
SmartArt competition blends art with sustainability. Grand Rapids Public Schools’ high-school students created artwork embodying renewable energy and sustainability themes. The top-20 finalists will be revealed at this ceremony.
Sponsored By: Consumers Energy
Top 25 Announcement
Where: ArtPrize Oasis (555 Monroe)
When: September 22, 5–8 p.m.
Where: ArtPrize Oasis (555 Monroe)
When: September 22, 5–8 p.m.
The first big reveal announces the Top 25 entries for ArtPrize 2023 based on public vote. Attendees can enjoy the performances of musical group Y-Not.
The Lived Experience—Silent Disco
Where: Calder Plaza
When: September 23, 6–10 p.m.
Where: Calder Plaza
When: September 23, 6–10 p.m.
ArtPrize celebrates the curated exhibition at City Hall, The Lived Experience, with a silent disco showcasing the BIPOC experience through music and art.
Merchants and Makers + ArtPrize Presents: The ArtPrize Artisan Market
Where: Gillett Bridge and Ah-Nab-Awen Park
When: September 23–24, 11 a.m.–7 p.m.
Where: Gillett Bridge and Ah-Nab-Awen Park
When: September 23–24, 11 a.m.–7 p.m.
Over 80 vendors will sell their crafts at this craft fair, complemented by food trucks and live performances, making it a festive gathering for all attendees.
Family Fun Education Counter
Where: ArtPrize ClubHouse
When: Mondays–Fridays, 4-7 p.m.
Where: ArtPrize ClubHouse
When: Mondays–Fridays, 4-7 p.m.
Visit the Cultivate and ArtPrize Education Station for resources designed for K-12 students. Learn about walking tours, worksheets, and art challenges.
Family Art Fun!
Where: ArtPrize Oasis
When: Saturdays and Sundays, 12–2 p.m.
Where: ArtPrize Oasis
When: Saturdays and Sundays, 12–2 p.m.
A free drop-in art-making workshop designed for families. Staff will assist and inspire during this creative process.
Field Trips
Where: ArtPrize ClubHouse (2 Fulton)
When: Hourly from 9:00 a.m.–noon on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Fridays
Where: ArtPrize ClubHouse (2 Fulton)
When: Hourly from 9:00 a.m.–noon on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Fridays
ArtPrize offers guided tours and art workshops for students in grades K–12. Each trip fosters creativity and critical thinking, with free admission. For more information, visit cultivategr.com
ArtPrize Closing Awards Ceremony
Where: Rosa Parks Circle
When: September 29, 6:30–9:30 p.m.
When: September 29, 6:30–9:30 p.m.
The culmination of ArtPrize, celebrating this year’s winners and all participants. The event features local food vendors, immersive experiences, and a live musical performance by The Dip.
