Everything You Need to Know About ArtPrize 2024

It’s that time of year again! ArtPrize is back in Grand Rapids, and this year is bigger than ever — taking place between September 13 – September 28 across 165 venues. With so much to see and this many amazing events, it’s probably a good idea to plan ahead, but don’t worry, we’re here to help! We’ve broken down everything you need to know about ArtPrize 2024.

Table of Contents
What is ArtPrize?
Where is ArtPrize?
ArtPrize Events
Other Events

 

What is ArtPrize?

Starting in 2009, ArtPrize is an international art competition that invites artists from across the globe to showcase their talents and vie for amazing prizes. From the start, ArtPrize has stayed true to its mission of uniting people through creativity, connection, and awe-inspiring experiences. As it continues to evolve, the 2022 launch of a dynamic partnership among the City of Grand Rapids, Downtown Grand Rapids, Inc. (DGRI), and Kendall College of Art and Design of Ferris State University (KCAD) has brought fresh energy to the event. Now, in 2024, ArtPrize celebrates its 14th year with 950 artists and 650 pieces of art, transforming Grand Rapids into an extraordinary canvas of artistic expression.

The competition aspect of ArtPrize is broken down into six different categories — 2D, 3D, Time-Based, Installation, New Media, +Design. This gives opportunity for artists of any variety to participate. This year, there is $390,000 total in awards. $185,000 of that is decided by the Public Vote, split up into a $125,000 grand prize and six $10,000 prizes for each category. Another $185,000 is divided between Juried Vote awards. Finally, there is a $10,000 Artist-to-Artist award, where this year’s artists celebrate one of their own, as well as an Outstanding Venue award, decided by the public, for the venue that best features their artist.

How Does Voting Work?
The voting process for ArtPrize 2024 looks a little bit different than years prior. This year, voting will continue from 12 p.m. on September 13 until 10 p.m. on September 26 with all participating artists eligible throughout the entire voting window. That means you’ll have even more time to view as much art as possible, and it gives each artists a better chance of placing by the end.

To actually cast votes, the best way to participate is by voting online via the official app. To make it super easy, there is a QR code located by every piece of art that will take you straight to where you need to be, or you can use the unique numerical code placed near each work. Keep in mind, you will have to register and be physically located within the ArtPrize Boundary to cast your first vote. In-person voting is still available from the ArtPrize ClubHouse, which is open from 12 to 8 p.m. daily.

Scavenger Hunt
If you want to dial your ArtPrize experience up a notch, take part in one of the organized Scavenger Hunts through the Wisck app. There are five pathway options, each with seven stops. If you find all the stops between September 13 & September 28 in the correct order, you’ll receive a prize! After downloading the app, simply select which scavenger hunt you’d like, and get started! Hint: all scavenger hunts start at the ArtPrize ClubHouse!

 

Where Does ArtPrize 2024 Take Place?

The short answer — all over! For sixteen days, ArtPrize makes the city of Grand Rapids a playground for creativity and celebration with art spread across local businesses, parks, museums, and public spaces of every variety. This year, the art is featured in 165 diverse venues spread across five distinct geographic districts — Center City, Northside, Southside, Eastside, and Westside. Some venues will showcase a single standout piece, while others will host a collection of captivating artworks, turning every corner of the city into a dynamic canvas. Get ready to explore and be amazed as ArtPrize turns Grand Rapids into a dazzling mosaic of artistic expression!

Transportation for ArtPrize 2024
Luckily, there are several low cost options for navigating ArtPrize 2024, whether you’re driving, walking, scootering, biking, or using public transit — there’s so much to explore! Enjoy a walkable experience with paved routes connecting venues and plenty of spots to rest in between at parks and restaurants. Parking is plentiful, with options near venues in each district. Street parking is available via the MOTU app, but you can also plan ahead for parking lot & ramp options via the city’s interactive map. For public transit, the free Downtown Area Shuttle (DASH) runs every 15 minutes through the ArtPrize District, while The Rapid’s Silver and Laker Line buses offer regular service. Lime e-scooters and e-bikes add another fun, flexible way to get around. Additional accessibility resources are also available through Experience Grand Rapids to ensure a comfortable visit for everyone.

ArtPrize ClubHouse
The ArtPrize ClubHouse is the central hub for visitors, artists, and volunteers. Stop by to chat with the find the friendly ArtPrize concierge, cast your vote at the voting kiosk, or browse this year’s merch. The ClubHouse will also be hosting numerous events and workshops throughout the duration of ArtPrize. The clubhouse is located at 65 Commerce Ave.

 

ArtPrize 2024: Events to Know About

ArtPrize is bursting with excitement this year, packing over two weeks of electrifying events! There’s truly something for everyone on the jam-packed schedule, though it might feel a bit overwhelming. No worries—we’ve curated a list of the must-see highlights to help you navigate the festivities. If you’d like to see the full list of events, though, be sure to visit the ArtPrize website!

 

Main Events
Kick Off Parades
The start of it all — hop into one of three parade routes to kick off the beginning of ArtPrize! All three routes will eventually lead to the Pearl Street Bridge to lead straight into the Opening Celebration.
When: Sept 13 at 6:30pm
Starting Points: Fish Ladder Park, 555 Monroe, & ArtPrize ClubHouse

Opening Night Celebration
Directly following the Kick-Off Parades, celebrate the first official day of ArtPrize with great food, live music, and a huge fireworks show!
When: Sept 13 from 7pm-10pm
Where: Pearl Street Bridge

Merchants & Makers Market
100+ vendors will gather in this outdoor marketplace full of handmade goods, happening every Saturday during ArtPrize.
When: Sept 14, Sept 18, & Sept 21 from 10am-6pm
Where: 555 Monroe

Curb Appeal
Rev up your engines for this car show, which features the design work that goes into custom auto work.
When: Sept 21 from 12–8pm
Where: Las Canchas GR

HalfTime Show
Time to kick ArtPrize up a notch: the HalfTime Show marks the halfway point for ArtPrize voting. Not only will the top 100 artist entires be announced, but there will be a stellar performance from The Pack Drumline!
When: Sept 20 from 7pm-10pm
Where: Studio Park

Closing Ceremony
An event as big as ArtPrize ought to go out with a bang! This year, the winners will be announced during this block party, featuring food trucks, a cash bar, a laser show, and a live circus performance.
When: Sept 27 from 6:30pm-10pm
Where: KCAD

 

Live & Interactive Events
Portraiture in Action
Sit for a 10-minute portrait by artist Leon Lou! Even better, take it home with you for free!
When: Every Day from 12pm-2pm
Where: Gerald R. Ford Presidential Museum

Custom Poems on Demand
Stop by the DeVos Place to get a custom poem from spoken word poet Endlesswill. Just give him a one word prompt, and he’ll type you a masterpiece.
When: Every Day from 8am-8pm (omitting 12pm-1pm)
Where: DeVos Place

ArtPrize Workshops
Feeling inspired by all the art around town? Take a moment to express your creativity at one of the several art workshops set up throughout ArtPrize!
When: Sept 14-16 & Sept 21-23 from 10am-2pm
Where: ArtPrize ClubHouse

Honda Paint My Ride
Students from Kendall College of Art & Design will be painting cars live for a chance to win $1,500. Active Painting will take place the first weekend of ArtPrize, but the cars will remain on display throughout!
When: Sept 13-Sept 28 from 8am-8pm
Where: Monroe Center

Art Battle
A group of visual artists go head-to-head in this live painting tournament. Watch as competitors transform a blank canvas and vote for your favorite!
When: Sept 17 from 7pm-10:30pm
Where: ArtPrize ClubHouse
*tickets required

 

Exhibitions
AllArt: Grand Rapids
Experience an art gallery like no other! Hosted by AllArtWorks, this is an enormous show with over 700 pieces. The art will change every 30 minutes in a rotating format!
When: Sept 20-Sept 22 from 11am-11pm
Where: DeVos Place
*tickets required

ArtPrize Throughout the Years
Take a dive through the history of ArtPrize with this exhibit, featuring work from years past — including two Grand Prize winning pieces.
When: Sept 13-Sept 28
Where: GRAM

Priceless Gallery
This gallery features artwork handpicked from the ArtPrize Exhibitions Team themselves! The collection is based on themes of aspects of the human experience that would be considered “priceless.”
When: Sept 13-Sept 28
Where: ArtPrize ClubHouse

SmartArt@City Hall
Check out the art of high school students from Grand Rapids Public Schools, all centered around the idea of renewable energy, energy efficiency, and sustainability.
When: Sept 13-Sept 28
Where: Grand Rapids City Hall

 

Other Cool Art Events Happening Around GR

Grand Rapids African American Art & Music Festival
Experience a day full of incredible live entertainment, art, food, and more at the Grand Rapids African American Art & Music Festival. Admission is free, so bring the whole family!
When: Sept 14 from 5–9pm
Where: Rosa Park Circle

Fiesta Mexicana
Take part in vibrant music, delicious cuisine, and engaging activities that highlight the rich traditions of Mexico. It’s a fun-filled weekend for all ages, perfect for enjoying with friends and family.
When: Sept 13-Sept 15
Where: Calder Plaza

Confluence Festival
Get to know West Michigan’s tech and innovation scene through this hands-on experience full of robotics, art, music, and all things technology.
When: Sept 20 from 6pm-10pm & Sept 21 from 10am-6pm
Where: Rosa Parks Circle

Grand Rapids Film Festival
Who doesn’t love a night at the movies? Well, expand that love for an entire weekend of local film — the Grand Rapids Film Festival is back with a schedule full of screenings at two beloved cinemas! Round out the weekend with their Awards Ceremony at Brewery Vivant!
When: Sept 20-22
Where: Wealthy Street Theater & Muse
*tickets required