
Venues FAQ
Whether you’re a first-time Venue Manager or a returning partner, this guide will help you navigate ArtPrize 2025. From venue requirements to artist coordination, event logistics, and visitor support, you’ll find all the key details here.
GeNERAL INFORMATION + SUPPORT
WHAT IS ARTPRIZE?
ArtPrize is an international art competition and cultural event held annually in Grand Rapids, MI. Businesses, organizations, and public spaces open their doors to artworks from all over the world, creating a citywide gallery. Viewing is free and open to the public.
ArtPrize is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit supported by corporate, foundation, governmental, and individual donations.
WHEN IS ARTPRIZE 2025?
September 18 – October 4, 2025
WHAT IS THE ARTPRIZE CLUBHOUSE?
The ArtPrize ClubHouse is the central hub for visitors, artists, venue managers, and volunteers. Inside, you’ll find:
Concierge staff for event support
Official ArtPrize merchandise
Beverages and refreshments for purchase
Art workshops
Location: 40 Pearl St NW, Grand Rapids, MI 49503
Hours: September 18–October 4, 10 a.m.–8 p.m. daily
NEED HELP DURING THE EVENT?
Visit the ClubHouse, use an Info Kiosk, or find an ArtPrize volunteer in red.
ArtPrize Information Kiosks - Located at:
Center City ClubHouse Concierge - 40 Pearl St NW
North District Kiosk - 555 Monroe
East District Kiosk - 1009 Hermitage St SE
South District Kiosk - 130 Fulton St W
West District Kiosk - 303 Pearl St NW
Email: support@artprize.org
Phone: 616-699-5379
LOST OR FOUND ITEM?
Bring it to the ClubHouse Concierge or complete the Lost Item Form.
VENUE RESPONSIBILITIES
WHAT ARE MY REQUIRED VENUE HOURS?
Minimum open hours (venues may be open longer—check your posted hours on your venue profile to ensure that it is up to date):
Mon–Thurs: 5–8 p.m.
Fri–Sat: 12–8 p.m.
Sun: 12–6 p.m.
HOW DO I COMMUNICATE WITH MY ARTISTS?
Stay in contact with your hosted artists before, during, and after the event.
Use your agreed method (email, phone, messaging) for quick coordination.
If you can’t reach an artist, contact ArtPrize Support.
CAN I MOVE AN ARTWORK DURING THE EVENT?No, unless the work is in danger of damage or poses a safety concern and you cannot reach the artist. In urgent cases, take necessary precautions to protect people and property.
WHAT IF AN ARTWORK IS DAMAGED?
Report it using the Incident Report Form.
Email ArtPrize Support so we can help navigate the situation.
ArtPrize is not liable for damage but will assist where possible.
ACCESSIBILITY
HOW DO I SUPPORT ACCESSIBILITY AT MY VENUE?
Ensure your venue’s accessibility details are accurate on your ArtPrize profile.
ArtPrize has wheelchairs available for rent at the ClubHouse for visitor use.
Clearly mark accessible entrances, restrooms, and parking if available.
VOTING & PUBLIC ENGAGEMENT
WHEN IS PUBLIC VOTING?
Friday, September 19 at 12 p.m. – Thursday, October 2, 10 p.m.
WHERE ARE ARTISTS’ QR & VOTING CODES LOCATED?
QR code: On the artist label provided by ArtPrize for display next to the artwork.
Voting code: On the artist’s online profile and app listing.
HOW CAN VISITORS VOTE?
Scan the QR code or enter the voting code in the ArtPrize app (Flockx).
Register/log in.
Tap “Vote” on the entry profile.
One vote per entry per day; visitors can vote again every 24 hours.
EVENTS + PROGRAMMING
KEY SIGNATURE EVENTS:
Opening Ceremony – Sept 19, beer garden and workshop at 4:30 p.m.: Kick off ArtPrize 2025 at Rosa Parks Circle with live music, vibrant brass bands, costumed performers, and interactive art starting at 6:30 PM. Enjoy the beer garden (open at 4:30 PM during our Lantern Workshop) with craft brews and refreshing drinks for guests 21+. As night falls, join the ArtPrize Parade, a lively, music-filled procession leading to fireworks on the river, marking the official start of eighteen days of art and inspiration.
Halftime Celebration – Sept 26, Gates open at 6 p.m.: Halfway through ArtPrize, we celebrate big at Sixth Street Park with live music, food trucks, and the exciting reveal of the Top 20 entries in each district. This year’s headliner is country-R&B artist Tiera Kennedy, joined by Jake Kershaw and The Bootstrap Boys. Voting stays open after the reveal—so keep supporting your favorites!
Awards Ceremony – Oct 3, 6-10 p.m.: Join us for the grand finale of ArtPrize, located at Studio Park. This is where we reveal the winners of this year’s prizes, celebrating the incredible talent, creativity, and dedication of participating artists. The evening is filled with excitement, community spirit, and a shared love of art as we honor both public-voted and juried award recipients.
It’s more than just an announcement—it’s a celebration of the eighteen days of creativity that brought our city to life. Expect music, energy, and memorable moments as we close another unforgettable ArtPrize season.
Find more information on these events and full programming details, see the ArtPrize Events Calendar.
PARKING + TRANSPORTATION
WHERE CAN STAFF & VISITORS PARK?
DASH Lots: Area 8 (325 Winter Ave NW) & Area 9 (250 Seward Ave NW) – $2–$6 event rates.
Downtown ramps & street parking: Parking Map.
Download the MOTU App for street parking payment.
IS PUBLIC TRANSPORTATION AVAILABLE?
Yes. The Rapid buses and the free DASH shuttles serve all districts. Transit is accessible for all passengers.
DEINSTALLATION
WHEN DOES DEINSTALLATION BEGIN?
Based on times/dates agreed upon in your Hosting Agreements with the artists.
WHO REMOVES THE ARTWORK?
Artists are responsible for their own deinstallation and removal unless otherwise agreed upon. Coordinate with them for site access and packing.
CAN ART BE STORED OR DONATED AFTER THE EVENT?
ArtPrize does not provide storage. Artists must arrange their own storage or donation. If an artist leaves their work at your venue without permission or communication, please reach out to ArtPrize Support.
Questions?
For additional support, contact:
General Inquiries: support@artprize.org
Exhibition & Venue Questions: exhibitions@artprize.org
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Need Help?
Have more questions? Reach out to our support team by filling out the contact form below (select 'Venues' in the drop-down):