Talented artists from around the world are showcased each year at ArtPrize, an open art competition held over 19 days in Grand Rapids, Michigan. With an emphasis on unbridled creativity, ArtPrize lets artists display their work across all mediums. It’s a fantastic time to visit Grand Rapids, when museums, bars, theatres, hotels and other public spaces display work submitted for the competition, turning the city into a giant free art gallery.
ArtPrize doubles as a cultural festival, hosting events throughout, such as artist talks, live performances and family-friendly shows. It is one of the world’s most publically attended art events, attracting more than 500,000 visitors each year. Past winners have submitted breathtaking pieces, including wooden carvings, pixel-portraits and interactive art installations that immerse you in the creation.
Grand Rapids has numerous cultural attractions also worth visiting, including the Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park and Grand Rapids Art Museum. The Grand Rapids Public Museum is popular among families and history lovers for its 1920s carousel and planetarium.
Getting there
Grand Rapids is located near the northern border of the United States, easily reached via a flight to Gerald R. Ford International Airport or on the Amtrak or Greyhound services. There are also three major highways into Grand Rapids if you prefer to drive.