Celebrating ArtPrize Installations on the Grand River
The Grand River flows through the heart of Grand Rapids, serving as a vibrant backdrop for community gatherings, recreational activities, and, of course, artistic expression. The riverfront has often been transformed by ArtPrize into a dynamic canvas for artists to showcase their creativity. Over the years, the river has hosted a variety of innovative installations that resonate deeply with both locals and visitors. Let’s take a stroll down memory lane to revisit some of the iconic art pieces that have graced the waters of the Grand River during ArtPrize.
Nessie on the Grand (2009)
During ArtPrize 2009, visitors were charmed by Nessie on the Grand, a whimsical sculpture created by The Nessie Project (Thomas Birks, Richard App, David Valdisseri, and Joachim Jensen) that depicted a playful version of the Loch Ness Monster partially submerged in the river. This larger-than-life piece delighted viewers with its imaginative flair and earned sixth place in the competition, receiving $7,000. Positioned in the Grand River between the Blue Bridge and the Fulton Street Bridge, Nessie became a beloved symbol of the riverfront and was eventually repurposed recycled into a bench that will be placed in the Zoo's Welcome Garden.
Stick-to-it-ive-ness. Artist: Richard Morse. Photo by Greg Vedders.
Stick-to-it-ive-ness (2012)
One of the most memorable installations from ArtPrize 2012 was Stick-to-it-ive-ness, created by artist Richard Morse. This playful piece featured vibrant structures floating in the river, encouraging viewers to interact and engage with the art in a joyful way. After its time on the Grand River, Stick-to-it-ive-ness was relocated to Riverside Park, where it continues to inspire creativity and delight visitors.
Silkwaves. Artists: AI & Laurie Roberts. Photo by Steve/Lasher Studios.
Silkwaves (2013)
A remarkable installation from ArtPrize 2013 was Silkwaves, created by artists Al & Laurie Roberts. This interactive piece featured colorful fabric waves cascading across the river, inviting viewers to walk through and experience the art from different angles. The installation emphasized the fluidity and movement of water, beautifully complementing the river's natural ebb and flow. After its time in the Grand River, Silkwaves was repurposed into community workshops, inspiring creativity and engagement in various local art initiatives.
SOS. Artists: Ann Hirsch and Jeremy Angier. Photo by ArtPrize.
SOS, Safety Orange Swimmers (2017)
A poignant installation showcased during ArtPrize 2017 was SOS (Safety Orange Swimmers), a collaboration between Boston-based artists Ann Hirsch and Jeremy Angier. The piece featured a life-sized boat filled with figures representing displaced individuals, drawing a powerful connection between the Grand River and the many rivers and seas crossed by people in search of safety and shelter. Although dismantled, SOS continues to resonate in our community, sparking vital conversations about empathy and support for those in need.
Harvest Dome 3.0. Artists: SLO Architecture. Photo by ArtPrize.
Harvest Dome 3.0 (2018)
In ArtPrize 2018, Harvest Dome 3.0 made waves with its stunning design and message, crafted by artists SLO Architecture. This dome-shaped structure, made from repurposed materials, underscored the importance of community agriculture and food security. Floating gracefully at the Grand River edge, it served as both an eye-catching installation and an educational piece. After ArtPrize, the dome found a new home in a community garden, where it continues to promote sustainable practices and local food awareness.
