Reflections on ArtPrize

Winning ArtPrize 2024’s Public Vote Grand Prize changed my life. The outpouring of support and enthusiasm lit a fire under my artistic dreams and the prize money gave me the financing to make them real. I am forever grateful to the community, my family, and friends for this opportunity. 

Dynamic Sunset was created in the unfinished corner of my condo basement which imposed a lot of limitations. Now I have a full studio with all the tools I could ever need. I’ve been using the space to create new art. I’m particularly excited to be experimenting with new metals and chemical reactions. Exciting new pieces are on the way!

I’m now in the process of creating my own gallery that will be open to the public. My lifelong dream of being a full time artist is becoming a reality.   

ArtPrize is an amazing opportunity for artists. It has embedded an appreciation for the arts in the Grand Rapids culture and offers the chance for artists from around the world to show their best work. I’ve participated in ArtPrize almost every year since its inception in 2009. Each year I entered, the competition pushed me to experiment with new techniques, improve artistically, and gave me a goal to chase. It takes a lot to win: great art, luck, a good venue, and a lot of tenacity but even without a prize, it's well worth the effort. 

To any artist reading this who isn’t sure about competing, try it. ArtPrize will help you grow as an artist, meet your audience, and contribute to an amazing community. Winning might take decades but keep creating. Your art will thank you.