Becoming an ArtPrize Artist
Welcome! This FAQ will guide you through the process of becoming and participating as an ArtPrize artist, from registration to exhibiting your work. Below, you'll find essential information about requirements, funding opportunities, and connecting with venues.
General Information
WHAT IS ARTPRIZE?
ArtPrize is an international art competition and cultural event held annually in Grand Rapids, MI. It is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization that funds its operating budget, including over $600,000 in prizes and grants, through corporate giving, governmental support, foundations, and individual contributions.
WHO IS RUNNING ARTPRIZE NOW?
ArtPrize is presented in partnership with the City of Grand Rapids, Downtown Grand Rapids Inc., and Kendall College of Art and Design of Ferris State University. The ArtPrize team operates as an independent entity under a Steering Committee and is supported by the community.
WHERE DOES THE PRIZE MONEY COME FROM?
ArtPrize is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit that fundraises year-round to support its operations, including the $400,000 in prizes and $200,000 in grants awarded to artists, curators, and educators. Funding sources include corporate sponsorships, foundations, individual donations, and government grants.
WHEN IS ARTPRIZE IN 2025?
September 18 – October 4, 2025
HOW CAN I STAY UPDATED?
Sign up for the Artist Newsletter for updates on artist opportunities and deadlines.
Grant Opportunities
WHAT GRANTS ARE AVAILABLE FOR ARTISTS IN 2025?
ArtPrize offers multiple grants to support artists. The Grants Page provides details on eligibility and application requirements.
GRANT TIMELINE
Applications Open: March 3, 2025
Applications Close: May 2, 2025
Notifications: by the week of June 10, 2025
HOW ARE GRANTS DISTRIBUTED?
Selected recipients will receive an email with:
A payment schedule
Grant payment details and requirements
Registration & Fees
HOW DO I ENTER MY WORK?
Registration Period: March 31 – May 30, 2025
Register or log in via the ArtPrize Dashboard
Returning artists from 2024 do not need to create a new account. Simply log in and update your profile.
Video walkthrough of this process coming soon!
WHAT ARE THE REGISTRATION FEES?
Solo Artists: $65
Collaborative Groups: $130 (two or more artists associated with the creation of an entry)
IF I WAS AN UNCONNECTED ARTIST FROM 2024, DOES MY REGISTRATION FEE ROLL OVER?
Please contact support@artprize.org for more information on possible fee rollovers for unconnected artists.
IS THERE A STUDENT DISCOUNT?
Yes! 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.
HOW DO I SUBMIT A COLLABORATIVE ENTRY?
The first registered artist becomes the primary contact.
Add collaborators via the entry profile.
Video walkthrough of this process coming soon!
Travel & Accommodation
AM I REQUIRED TO BE AT THE EVENT TO PARTICIPATE?
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.
WHERE SHOULD I STAY DURING ARTPRIZE?
Grand Rapids offers a wide range of lodging options, including different preferences and budgets for everyone who plans to stay in the city before, during, or after the event. Below are some options to simplify your search:
Experience Grand Rapids
Experience Grand Rapids has built a website that’s an excellent resource when planning your visit to the city. They offer information on Things To Do, Events, Restaurants, and Planning Your Stay. Their hotel page features filters including Categories, Region, Rates Per Night, and the ability to narrow your search by exploring specific amenities.
To use this resource, visit the Experience Grand Rapids website.
ArtPrize Housing Program:
ArtPrize recognizes the financial commitment of participating artists, especially those traveling from outside the city. To help with these expenses, we attempt to connect artists with volunteer hosts who may offer free or reduced-cost temporary housing. For the application and additional information review this infosheet.
Application Opens: March 31, 2025
Application Closes: July 25, 2025
If you are a Grand Rapids or surrounding area resident that may be interested in hosting, find more information in the Hosting infosheet.
Artwork Submission & Categories
WHAT CATEGORIES CAN I ENTER MY ARTWORK IN?
2-D – Flat artworks (painting, photography, printmaking, textiles)
3-D – Sculptural works viewable from multiple angles
Time-Based – Performance, video, film, dance, music, interactive works
Installation – Site-specific works that rely on location
New Media – Digital and technology-based art (VR, projection mapping, generative art)
+Design – Industrial, fashion, automotive, urban, and architectural design
Additional information can be found the Artist Rules and Handbook
HOW MANY PIECES CAN I ENTER?
Only one entry per artist or collaborative group
A multi-piece series can be submitted as one entry with one title.
DOES MY ENTRY NEED TO BE COMPLETED BEFORE REGISTRATION?
No! Artists can register unfinished work but must complete it in time for installation. Please note that venues are more likely to select complete or near-completed works.
CAN I SELL MY ARTWORK DURING ARTPRIZE?
Yes, artists can sell their entry through any preferred platform. We recommended working with AllArtWorks, the official sales partner of ArtPrize.
Questions?
For additional support, contact:
General Inquiries: support@artprize.org
Exhibition & Venue Questions: exhibitions@artprize.org
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):
