This year ArtPrize is changing some of the rules.
Regular people who visit the annual art competition in Grand Rapids help pick the winners; it’s what makes ArtPrize different from other, juried competitions.
But people tend to flock to the same big venues, where they can see lots of art in one stop. That means there are repeat finalists with works showing in predictable locations. Last fall, the winner was a textile artist from Frankfort, Michigan, who had previously won the completion in 2013.
Past grand prize winners cannot enter the competition. Previously, grand prize winners couldn't compete the following year.
Plus, only two works from a single venue can get into the final round. By putting a limit on the number of finalists for each venue, artists with work a little off the beaten path may have a better shot at making the short list.
Spokesman Todd Herring tells The Grand Rapids Press / MLive the goal is to "challenge the familiar and challenge the status quo." He says the change is aimed at keeping the choice of finalists fresh.
The 8thannual ArtPrize takes place this year from September 21st through October 19th. Venue registration is now open through April 7th and artist registration from April 18th to June 2nd.
