They Built It, But Will They Come

Since April when ArtPrize was first announced, reporters have been covering the everyday actions of Rick DeVos, artists, businesses and organizers of the event. But now the microphone is squarely in the face of the public.

And the question will be simple: Do you care enough to show up?

The table is set with an embarrassment of riches, arguably more pieces of art than any one person can see over the next 17 days.

You can't use the excuse that travel is a problem, considering that everything is tightly clustered in downtown Grand Rapids -- easily accessed by car, bike, or old-fashioned foot power. Cost is a non-issue because the venues and artists receptions are free. With more than 1,200 artists showing their works, there will be something to suit anyone's taste. Since ArtPrize takes place over the next two weeks, it's laughable to say you couldn't view any artworks because of conflicts with your schedule. And no one can tag ArtPrize as the work of effete intellectual snobs: everyone is encouraged to cast a vote for his or her favorite artwork.

Even the spatially challenged are hard pressed for an excuse because the Grand Rapids Press has mass distributed convenient maps that show all the ArtPrize venues.

But just because something is convenient, free, and interesting doesn't guarantee the public will show.

I've got a pretty ballsey prediction that will make me look foolish if I'm wrong, but I think this will be a shining moment in Grand Rapids history.



The people of Grand Rapids know that connecting with art is really about connecting with your community. And I think droves of art lovers -- both hard core and casual -- will be flooding downtown over the next two weeks.


So altogether now: “It’s time to put on makeup, it’s time to dress up right, it’s time to get this started….” (Yes, it is the Muppet’s theme song, but it just feels appropriate today.)

Choose Art…and often.

Tommy Allen, Lifestyle Editor

Email your ArtPrize experience:  [email protected]
Twitter (or legal stalking): @TommyGSync
Trending Topic: #ArtPrize


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Photo provided by Terry Johnston



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