ArtPrize Education

ArtPrize invites educators, students and families to experience contemporary art in a direct, immersive, and engaging way through our education program.

This year, educators, children and families will have the opportunity to explore artwork displayed throughout more than 150 venues across the city, attend a variety of community workshops, and extend their learning beyond the event with our print and digital teaching tools for K-12 classrooms.

Whether you’re exploring a single installation or spending the day immersed in the vibrant world of ArtPrize, our education program provides meaningful opportunity to connect art with curriculum, community, and critical thinking.

The ArtPrize Education Program is generously supported by Macatawa Bank and the Wege Foundation.
Field trips are presented by Macatawa Bank, supported by Michigan Arts and Culture Council, and Warner Norcross + Judd.
Education Workshops are supported by Corewell Health.

While ArtPrize runs from September 18th - October 3rd, with Preview Week September 12th - September 17th, we cannot guarantee availability of educational materials nor will our education staff be available during the event until Monday, Sept 21st.

All educational tours are self-guided this year.

To help you make the most of your visit, we'll provide a suggested walking route featuring:

• Suggested artworks to visit

• Discussion prompts and observation activities

• Recommended rest stops

• Public restroom locations

We also encourage students to engage with artists whenever possible. Many artists will be present at their venues and are happy to discuss their work and creative process.

Don't forget to RSVP. Please let us know the date you plan to visit ArtPrize so we can prepare your educational materials in advance. Bring as many chaperones as needed to support your group throughout the day.

Please email education@artprize.org to express your interest, and our Education Coordinator will follow up with details regarding material allocation, busing, walking routes and more.

ArtPrize Education staff will host a Education Tent where tour attendees can pick up their group's materials, including:

ArtPrize Education Magazines (which can be used as both a map and activity book)

• Any reserved educational materials

• T-shirts (if applicable)
  
  The Education Tent will be open Monday–Friday from 9am–12pm, starting Sept. 21st located near the Gerald R. Ford Presidential Museum.
  
  If you plan to arrive at the Ford Museum outside of these hours, please email education@artprize.org by September 1 to arrange pickup of your group's materials.

Bus grant applications will open during the last week of August and will be awarded on a first-come, first-served basis while funding is available.

Applying is easy:

1. Submit Your Application
Complete the Bus Grant Application (linked below)

2. Watch for Approval
Applications will be reviewed in the order they are received while funding remains available.

3. Receive Reimbursement Instructions
Once your application has been approved, you will be contacted with information and instructions for receiving your reimbursement.

APPLICATION WINDOW FOR 2026 HAS CLOSED.

ArtPrize’s suite of educational resources, including art magazines and curriculum materials is designed to enhance art education.

Their magazines delve into contemporary art, providing insights for classroom discussions. The curriculum resources offer lesson plans tailored for various educational levels, encouraging creativity and critical analysis. Together, these tools support educators in inspiring students and underscore ArtPrize’s commitment to advancing art education.

2026 material will be available soon! Click below to view previous years' resources.

ArtPrize offers awesome volunteer opportunities through family events, activities, and school programs. Help support our education efforts by becoming an ArtPrize volunteer.