Artist at ArtPrize Offering Their Artwork for Sale on Facebook
ArtPrize, the biggest event in Grand Rapids each year, has kicked off with a bang, drawing thousands of visitors downtown over the weekend to explore the over 900 entries on display. The impact of this event on the city is significant, both economically and socially, as it attracts hundreds of thousands of people.
Running from September 18 to October 4, the public will have the opportunity to vote for their favorite artist to win the coveted $100,000 grand prize. Additionally, winners in categories such as 2D, 3D, Installation, Time-Based, New Media, and +Design will each receive $10,000, providing artists with the chance to earn substantial rewards based on their creative work.
With stiff competition from six artists among the hundreds of entries, relying solely on prize earnings may not be lucrative for most artists. Therefore, the option to sell their artwork is available, allowing them to potentially generate income from their creations. This presents an intriguing aspect when stumbling upon an ArtPrize entry listed for sale on platforms like Facebook Marketplace, providing a glimpse into the business side of art from the artist’s perspective.
One such listing on Facebook by John Smith Jr. showcases a 16ft tall giant statue entered in Art Prize with an asking price of $20,000. The statue is currently displayed at Sixth Street Park off Monroe until October 4th and is described as a unique piece with intricate details, including the ability to pivot its head and swing its arms, as well as solar-powered spotlights for eyes. The listing on Facebook not only promotes the artwork but also highlights its participation in ArtPrize, creating additional buzz around the event.
For the 15th year in a row, ArtPrize continues to draw massive crowds to Downtown Grand Rapids, showcasing a diverse range of art across the city. While numerous artists are recognized each year, only one will emerge as the Grand Prize winner, determined by public votes. Reflecting on past winners from 2009 to the present, it is evident that ArtPrize has been a platform for celebrating creativity and engaging the community through art.
In addition to the main event, ArtPrize also features unique contests such as the West Michigan Honda Dealers Design and Drive Art Contest, where artists compete to win a 24-month lease. Hand-painted cars are among the creative entries in this contest, adding a dynamic element to the ArtPrize experience and inviting the public to participate in the voting process.
As ArtPrize 2025 unfolds, spectators and art enthusiasts alike are immersed in a vibrant display of creativity, innovation, and artistic expression. The event serves as a testament to the thriving art scene in Grand Rapids and continues to captivate audiences year after year with its diverse array of artworks and engaging activities.