Today, I ventured to downtown Grand Rapids to see some of the entries in this year’s “Art Prize,” an art competition that encourages public interaction .. and voting … to determine who wins the top prize of $250K. Last year’s event brought over 200K people to our city and saw 1700 artists from 21 countries participate. For more visit (http://www.artprize.org/ )
So off I went with my boss; he loves this stuff and, lucky for me, had already scouted out many of the exhibits during my absence last week. It was a beautiful day, the sun was shining and people – young, old, able and not as much, were out taking in the sights. I stepped aside more than once to let large school groups pass; I slowed as elderly couples lingered a bit longer. I held back so someone could snap a photo and even talked with a few of the artists.
I observed. I wondered. I enjoyed.
"Mesmer Eyes .. a Requiem;" image from ArtPrize.org
Some of the artwork is traditional enough that even I could recognize it as an entry; others were so abstract that I’m pretty sure the artist’s concept blew right past me. That’s OK, I’m no critic. I like what I like and I know others do as well. Some entries were so powerfully done that I left feeling overwhelmed. The talent and passion displayed was … moving.
We were able to view six of the top ten and many others that deserved to be there, in my opinion.
My favorite so far was this one: Mesmer Eyes…a Requiem by Kathy Goodell. “It manipulates optical phenomena, light, transparency, and the oscillating tension between matter and illusion.” – reads the official transcript. All I know is that Mesmer Eyes made me stop in my tracks and stop to take another look. I’m still thinking about it now.
What is Art?
A: It’s whatever we think it is. No wonder people are so excited.
Yes! Art is in the eye of the beholder! Looks like a fun day.
Gonna have to go back; the entries are on display for another week but the public voting closes this week. It was fun to be part of the excitement and see young & old get caught up in it 🙂 MJ
Wow – that sounds like some art show!
When I think of art, I think of my niece. She does beautiful pastels and sketches. I’m hoping she’ll allow me to write a post in the near future about a recent sketch she did of her grandmother (my mom).
It is quite an interesting concept – bring all forms of art to a city and let the public decide what is art. There is some controversy b/c some critics think artists are pandering; whatever – it gets people out, talking and participating.
I hope to see that post about your niece’s artwork, Dianna 🙂 MJ
I love your last line…It couldn’t be more true!
I think so as well! MJ
That is an amazing event to bring that many people, offer that kind of prize from so many places. Looks like you have a week’s worth of viewing ahead of you…what fun!
This is the 3rd year and my first time going to see it; I should have gone sooner but didn’t. Am I ever glad I ventured out yesterday … and I will go again yet this week. Cheers! MJ
It’s all about how it makes you feel, isn’t it? Obviously, you were moved by Mesmer Eyes – thought provoking and interesting. I remember being at the MOMA and seeing a giant green fabric square on the wall – no decorations, no pattern, just a plain green square, as though a throw pillow had lost its stuffing.
I didn’t think it was art, yet, what did I keep talking about – that darn green square. It’s been thirty + years since I saw this and I may have forgotten all about the famous gorgeous paintings that lined the walls, but I haven’t forgotten the green square.
Yes – that’s it, Renee. It’s whatever speaks to us and a nice reminder that we’re all unique with our very own tastes and perspectives. I’m sure others passed my favorite with barely a thought but, like your green square, I am stuck on this one. Cheers! MJ
I agree with you — that’s a beautiful piece!
It’s even more amazing in person; it’s a huge piece with little orbs hanging in front. When they move you catch the illumination of the picture right behind it … mesmerizing 🙂 MJ
I love it when someone thinks enough about art to write about it. (Even when my opinion is slightly different from theirs!) Actually, I used to teach art not far from you, in Big Rapids. You write (express yourself) exceptionally well, too!
Small world, eh? Thank you for the compliment, I appreciate it.
MJ