Mark Stryker writes on Grand Rapids' ArtPrize, a citywide art competition that awards prize money based on public vote, and has been a boon to artists and the local economy. It is now inspiring other cities to host their own such events.
ArtPrize is a new breed of art competition that's causing quite a stir in cities across the country. In it's fourth year, the Grand Rapids-based competition brings artists and venues together to showcase contemporary works in various locations of the city. It's like an outdoor, city-wide museum. Writes Stryker, "About 1,500 artists from 39 states and 46 countries will be showing work in more than 160 venues -- museums, civic buildings, parks, restaurants, banks and more -- most squeezed into a walkable 3-square-mile core in downtown."
The public can vote for their favorite pieces online, through text message, or by mobile app, and this year the total prize money will reach $560,000. The competition has garnered a great deal of attention since its inception, and its attempt to "spark a broader engagement with art" has proved extremely successful.
After a study was released stating that in 2011, ArtPrize "added $15.4 million to the local economy" and drew "more than 320,000 visitors over 19 days," other cities like Akron, Ohio, realized the potential to boost their own economies. Says Downtown Akron Partnership president Suzie Graham, "We became involved because of the significant economic impact on Grand Rapids and the role the arts can play in revitalizing our downtown."
FULL STORY: Artists will vie for $560,000 at 4th annual ArtPrize in Grand Rapids
Planetizen Federal Action Tracker
A weekly monitor of how Trump’s orders and actions are impacting planners and planning in America.
Congressman Proposes Bill to Rename DC Metro “Trump Train”
The Make Autorail Great Again Act would withhold federal funding to the system until the Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority (WMATA), rebrands as the Washington Metropolitan Authority for Greater Access (WMAGA).
The Simple Legislative Tool Transforming Vacant Downtowns
In California, Michigan and Georgia, an easy win is bringing dollars — and delight — back to city centers.
The States Losing Rural Delivery Rooms at an Alarming Pace
In some states, as few as 9% of rural hospitals still deliver babies. As a result, rising pre-term births, no adequate pre-term care and "harrowing" close calls are a growing reality.
The Small South Asian Republic Going all in on EVs
Thanks to one simple policy change less than five years ago, 65% of new cars in this Himalayan country are now electric.
DC Backpedals on Bike Lane Protection, Swaps Barriers for Paint
Citing aesthetic concerns, the city is removing the concrete barriers and flexposts that once separated Arizona Avenue cyclists from motor vehicles.
Urban Design for Planners 1: Software Tools
This six-course series explores essential urban design concepts using open source software and equips planners with the tools they need to participate fully in the urban design process.
Planning for Universal Design
Learn the tools for implementing Universal Design in planning regulations.
Smith Gee Studio
City of Charlotte
City of Camden Redevelopment Agency
City of Astoria
Transportation Research & Education Center (TREC) at Portland State University
US High Speed Rail Association
City of Camden Redevelopment Agency
Municipality of Princeton (NJ)