Everything You Need to Know About ArtPrize 2025

It’s that time of year again! ArtPrize is back in Grand Rapids, and this year is bigger than ever — taking place between September 18 – October 4 across 155 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 2025.

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 2025, ArtPrize celebrates its 15th year with more than 1,100 artists that transform the city into an extraordinary canvas.

The competition aspect of ArtPrize is broken down into six different categories — 2D, 3D, Time-Based, Installation, New Media, and +Design. This gives opportunity for artists of any variety to participate. This year, there is $375,000 total in awards. $160,000 of that is decided by the Public Vote, split up into a $100,000 grand prize and six $10,000 prizes for each category. Another $160,000 is divided between Juried Vote awards. This year, there is an additional Visibility Award, sponsored by the MillerKnoll Foundation, which presents $50,000 between five artists that both have great work and are from underrepresented communities. Finally, there is a $5,000 Venue award, decided by the public, for the venue that best features their artist.

How Does Voting Work?
The voting process for ArtPrize 2025 is the same as it was last year. Voting will continue from 12 p.m. on September 19 until 10 p.m. on October 2 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 5-digit 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 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. daily. You can pick up a physical ballot or download a printable copy, and then just drop it off to the ClubHouse once you’ve filled it out.

Scavenger Hunt
If you want to dial your ArtPrize experience up a notch, Uptown GR has a free scavenger hunt for 2025! To play, visit at least 5 of the 27 venues scattered throughout Uptown. There will be an orange scavenger hunt poster at each venue with a key word, which you can enter on the scavenger hunt’s website to claim a point for the location. At the end, one lucky winner will win a prize basket of goodies from venues all around Uptown!

 

Where Does ArtPrize 2025 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 155 diverse venues spread across five distinct geographic districts — Center City, North, South, East, and West. 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
Luckily, there are several low cost options for navigating ArtPrize 2025, 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, and it’l be open throughout ArtPrize from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m.

 

ArtPrize 2025: 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
Opening Night Celebration
Celebrate the first official day of ArtPrize with great food, live music, a parade, and a huge fireworks show!
When: Sept 19 from 6:30pm-10pm
Where: Rosa Parks Circle

Merchants & Makers Market
A bunch of talented vendors will gather in this outdoor marketplace full of handmade goods, happening every Saturday during ArtPrize.
When: Sept 20, Sept 27, & Oct 4 from 10am-6pm
Where: Monroe Center

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 Tiera Kennedy!
When: Sept 26 from 7pm-10pm
Where: Sixth Street 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: Oct 3 from 6:30pm-10pm
Where: Studio Park

 

Exhibitions
The Power of Pollinators
Step into a world where bees, butterflies, and beetles are larger-than-life! This interactive exhibit features over 20 larger-than-life animatronic pollinators, showcasing their vital role in ecosystems and conservation.
When: Jul 14-Nov 23 from 11am-11pm
Where: John Ball Zoo
*included with admission

David Hockney: Perspective Should Be Reversed
Explore over 145 vibrant prints spanning six decades of David Hockney’s career in this landmark exhibition.
When: May 31-Nov 2
Where: GRAM
*tickets required

Arborialis: An ArtPrize Experience
Designed by UK-based Architects of Air, this breathtaking inflatable installation transforms space into a family-friendly glowing landscape of shapes and hues.
When: Sept 19-Oct 4
Where: 555 Monroe
*tickets required

 

Other Cool Art Events Happening Around GR

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 19 from 5pm-10pm & Sept 20 from 10am-6pm
Where: KCAD

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!
When: Sept 19-21
Where: Wealthy Street Theater & Muse
*tickets required

Dumpling Festival
Take your taste buds on a world tour at Dumpling Fest! For one delicious day, sample dumplings from around the globe—savory, sweet, steamed, and fried—all in the heart of Grand Rapids.
When: Sept 20
Where: 555 Monroe

Wealthy Street Block Party
Celebrate community, music, and flavor at the Wealthy Street Block Party! Enjoy live music, food trucks, craft drinks, kids’ activities, and a street full of local energy.
When: Sept 27 from 12pm-6pm
Where: Wealthy & Eastern Intersection