Jimmy Descant is crossing his fingers when he works the crowds in Grand Rapids, Michigan as he shows in Artprize. As the host site claims, it is “a radically open competition. Open to any artist in the world who can find space. Open to anybody in Grand Rapids, Michigan who wants to create a venue. Open to a vote from anyone who attends.”
First prize is $250,000, second prize is $100,000 and on down the line in one of this countries most generous outpourings of financial support for artists. How is the winner decided? The audience votes—yes, the reference to American Idol has come up—and the artist with the most votes takes the $250,000 prize. The vote turns everyone from passive observer into active participant. Anyone 16 years of age or older with an email and valid government ID can vote. There is no charge for voter registration. But, all voters must activate their voting status in person at the event.
A video of the artist arriving in Grand Rapids can be seen here.
ArtPrize® is an unusual competition with no official jury or curator. You build a profile online, which is your proposal. 
Then, negotiate with registered venues for a space. When you secure a venue, you’re in. Have your work installed by opening day, and the voting will begin.
September 22 – October 10
- $449,000 prize ($250,000 to 1st place)
- Top 10 entries receive a prize
- Artists can submit one entry
- Property in downtown Grand Rapids can be a venue
- Venues choose the artists they exhibit
- Anyone attending the event can vote
- Winner is determined by public vote
Thanks for the story Mr. Donavan. I got to meet the originator tonight at a speakers event, Mr. Rick DeVos, heir to the Amway fortune. It’s been a treat dealing with the Grand Rapids Art Museum and my 45 minute daily commute from Grand Haven where I’m staying with friends a few blocks from where I was born. My rocketships are a hit, but the connection with the locals is great due to exhibiting my Dad’s photos of JFK in the area in 1960. I’m also getting marquee recognition in Grand Haven for their piggyback art walk for the same duration. I miss all my friends back in the mountains and will be home soon, hopefully with the grand prize. I got to speak tonight about Salida and Christo also to a thrilled crowd. Check my site for updates.
Wish Salida was able to turn out and vote for you. Good Luck.
Well folks, I didn’t make the Top Ten in ArtPrize. The announcement was tonight, and I wish the winning artists much luck. The public has spoken, and now on to the other aspects of art…. educating the public about what my show is about, and sales so I can keep being an artist. Still have a week and a half to go!
Thanks for all the support and comments from friends back home.