ArtPrize 2018 is officially over! I’m sad to see it go, but I’m already excited for it’s return… in 2020. After ten consecutive years, the city decided to make ArtPrize an every other year event. It saddens me, but I suppose it will give artists more time to create amazing works. Plus, there will be something new to look forward to; on the “off” years, Grand Rapids will host a city-wide project. Next year it will be called Project 1 by ArtPrize. It is my understanding that one artist or group of artists will be commissioned for it. I’ll miss the full experience next year, but just like I cope with the off-Olympic years, I will cope with this too!

In one of my very first posts, I mentioned that religious art is my favorite, so it is no surprise that when I reflected on my favorite pieces from ArtPrize many were Christ-centered. (The sculpture might be my favorite. I love art that is amazing and convicting.) 

This painting won a public vote award. Painted by Mher Khachatryan.

“She Touched Him” by Thomas Thiery

“Whatsoever You Do”  A sculpture in bronze by Timothy Schmalz

I’m sure 2020 will be here before we know it. In the meantime, we’ll just enjoy our art in a less concentrated fashion!