Key Dates
Venue Registration Opens: March 2 (Closes April 2)
Artist + Designer Registration Opens: March 18 (Closes May 28)
ArtPrize 2026 Begins: September 17
FAQs
What is it?
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 it?
ArtPrize run September 17 to October 3, 2026
Why be an ArtPrize artist?
The benefit of being an ArtPrize artist is not only the chance to win awards and public accolades. Entering your artwork in ArtPrize creates opportunities to showcase your work to hundreds of thousands of visitors, network with peers, attend professional development events, and potentially sell your work or find commissions. Artists have created businesses as a result of their ArtPrize experience, started galleries, found patrons and commissions — both private and institutional — and so much more.
How much is it?
Solo Artists: $65
Collaborative Groups: $130 (two or more artists associated with the creation of an entry)
Students, faculty, and staff of educational institutions using a .edu email address or their institutional email can request a discount before submitting payment by emailing exhibitions@artprize.org.
Registration opens March 18.
Where is it?
ArtPrize is located in Grand Rapids, MI. It covers a 4.5 square mile area in the downtown district. Artist entries are displayed in local businesses, churches, parks, restaurants, etc throughout the district.
Are there grants available?
ArtPrize offers multiple grants to support artists. The Grants Page provides details on eligibility and application requirements.
Do I need a permit and insurance for my entry?
Depends on your work and where it is being hosted. Some outdoor entries may need city permits and Arts Advisory Board approval. Details in the Artist Handbook. Insurance is not required, but strongly encouraged to provide assurance. Please email exhibitions@artprize.org for preferred insurance carriers.
Do I have to be there?
No, but we strongly encourage artists to attend! The event offers numerous opportunities to engage, from experiencing the entries and immersive activities to attending our Signature ArtPrize Events and valuable networking opportunities.
How do I find a venue?
During the registration period, starting in March, artists pay for and register their entries on our website, and simultaneously, local Grand Rapids businesses, parks, restaurants, galleries, museums, churches, schools, etc., register their venues in order to host artwork. This is the first step for both artists and venues; the next step is what we call "Connections". Connections, which are facilitated through our website, are similar to a dating app. In this instance, though, it is the artists and venues that are matchmaking together. The filtering of artwork is completed through the connections process and is what is the final seal on participating.
How do I get help?
Please email support@artprize.org with any questions.
Artist Newsletter
Join our community of creatives and venues making ArtPrize an extraordinary celebration of creativity and innovation. Sign up now and don't miss out on making this event your canvas for unparalleled exposure and connection.
Need Help?
Have more questions? Reach out to our support team by filling out the contact form below (select 'Artists' in the drop-down):
