Unless you have hiding under a rock, or chained to your computer, The
Art Prize is the BIG NEWS in Grand Rapids, Michigan. The Art Prize was
announced earlier this year as a top prize of $250,000 for the top
art work selected by a public vote. This public voting is highly controversial,
as those in the art community doubt that the average person is qualified to
judge their art work. It is sure to create a buzz around art and I think that is
the point.
The Art Prize Exhibits opened yesterday and we went for our first
tour today. With 1262 artists entered in over 159 venues, it is no
small task to try to see them all. We took some time to tour the
Blue Bridge sculptures, Cathedral Square, Urban Institute for Contemporary Arts
and the Waters Building today. The others will have to wait until another day.
The voting will take place over a 2 week period, with just a thumbs up
vote to keep an entry in the running. The top 25, top 50, and top 100
are posted on the web site so we can all keep track of who is getting the
attention of the public.
Here are a few photos of the large installations at the Blue Bridge,
so you can get an idea of what Grand Rapids is up to:
The Nessie Project
Sarah Grant Table and Chairs
Our sources tell us the Nessie Project was supposed to go farther out
in the Grand River, so there would be more movement but the cranes
could not get it installed any farther from the shore.
The giant Table and Chairs is a very apt piece for Grand Rapids as we
were known as "Furniture City" for most of the 20th century.
Come on out and see the art work for yourself and don't forget to
register to vote for your favorite pieces.
10-3-09 UPDATE: Both of the art pieces pictured here are in the Top Ten for
the big cash prize. Vote for your favorite!
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The authors of the this blog write about Grand Rapids Real Estate,
the Greater Grand Rapids MI area, and what it is like to live in
West Michigan. We believe: Grand Rapids is a Great Place to Live!
Westbrook Realty Grand Rapids MI Real Estate
Contact Terry 616-292-7263
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