Monday, September 20, 2010

ArtPrize Profiles expressing dilemmas: Melissa Morrow and Lee Brown

West Michigan based artists Melissa Morrow and Lee Brown have collaborated for ArtPrize 2010 on an ambitious level, in their piece entitled Border’s Dilemma, located at the DeVos Place venue. The work, illustrating the artists’ response to the complex, confusing and often emotionally fueled topic of immigration, seeks to facilitate thoughtful and educated dialog on the subject.

click here to visit our Facebook Fan Page for Melissa and Lee's brief bio. Good Luck, Melissa and Lee!

ArtPrize Profiles show the use of natural light: William Papke and Gloria Kirk-Hanna

ArtPrize artist William Papke just installed his 31 foot tall “The GLISTENING” sculpture in the DeVos Place Convention Center main concourse. The work is a suspended, moving sculpture utilizing 12 multiform aluminum “blades”, hovering over introduced multicolor night lighting, and reflecting natural lighting from the Monroe Avenue window wall.

click here to visit our Facebook Fan Page for a brief bio on William and his work. Good luck William!

William will benefit from the natural light coming in from the main doors, but Gloria will utilize the light from the skywalk where her entry will be located.

Gloria Kirk-Hanna has been involved in the arts since childhood. The busy mother of two is founder of X-Stream Fibers, a fiber art and quilting business offering unique, cutting edge bags, customs quilts, and original and commissioned fiber art. "I believe my children should see me working. Quilting for hire from my home studio allows me the freedom to hang with my boys," she said.

click here to visit our Facebook Fan Page for a brief bio on Gloria and her work. Good luck Gloria!

ArtPrize 2010, an international art contest decided solely by public vote, officially begins Wednesday, September 22 and runs to Sunday, October 10.

Don't miss Art Fair 2010!
During ArtPrize, thousands of people will be in Grand Rapids for one reason: to see, experience and discuss art. And thanks to Art Fair, every one of them can browse or buy artwork* from over 50 registered ArtPrize artists. Held in centrally-located DeVos Place, at the heart of the ArtPrize district, Art Fair 2010 provides another exciting way for artists and the public to connect. Wander through our booths at DeVos Place to find a one-of-a-kind piece of art that speaks to you.

*Artwork entered in ArtPrize is not available for purchase

Friday, September 17, 2010

The Jungle Statement: Artist Paul Nilsson's ArtPrize Entry

Mowgli is the Jungle Boy from Rudyard Kipling’s Jungle Book. This installation of high fire ceramic work is dedicated to reading to children. It is for reading to them early to establish a climate for school readiness. It recognizes that reading is part of a healthy childhood. This project is supported by Reach Out and Read Michigan and Prescription to Read. It his further supported by the Michigan State University Institute of Agriculture Technology and it’s hard working Landscape and Lawn Technology students who are striving for a greener, cleaner and more beautiful America. Their landscaping efforts are hopefully a small step towards greening our cities to clean the air, beautifying our surroundings, reducing the temperatures and conserving energy. As for Mowgli and his friends, there are two stories. A kid’s story is that a child can survive in the Jungle with the help of his Jungle friends. The adult version is that in order to survive you must form alliances. There are many forces which can destroy you and your chances of avoiding that outcome are greatly increased by these covenants. Through collaboration, determination and cooperation you can not only survive but transcend the harsh realities of the Jungle. In order to complete the Jungle Boy I needed help from: ASAP Printing in Okemos, Baker Drive Train in Haslett, CENGAGE Learning Detroit, Jane & Dusty Barclay in Williamston, Mark Chatterley Studio in Williamston, Michigan State University Institute of Agricultural Technology, Sue Long Studio in Okemos, Playmaker’s in Okemos, Layton Richardson CPA in East Lansing, Wealth Management Partners in Williamston, my family in Williamston.

Jungle Boy Artist Paul Nilsson wishes to thank the DeVos Center for the opportunity to Exhibit his Sculptural Installation and furthering the cause of Reading Readiness and a Greener America through education and application.

Tuesday, September 14, 2010

ArtPrize Profiles Show ArtPrize Diversity: Paul Nilsson & Herbert Migdoll

Paul Nilsson hasn't always had a career as an artist. After teaching High School Art and coaching Track & Field and Cross Country at Williamston High School for 36 years, Nilsson retired to begin his career as a Studio Artist. This year, Mr. Nilsson (no pun, intended. Well, maybe a little) is exhibiting his work in ArtPrize!

Click here to visit our Facebook Fan Page for Paul's brief bio. Good Luck, Paul!

In contrast, Herbert Migdoll is a Chicago-based artist who has studied and exhibited art across the world for decades. Along the way, Migdoll's work has garnered numerous awards. Some of his art have even graced covers for magazines such as Time, Life, Horizon, Dance Magazine, and New York Times Magazine. Click here for a brief bio on Herbert and his work.

Just one of the great things about ArtPrize is that it allows a venue for artists from all walks of life, beliefs, and pasts to equally exhibit their art and voice their individual perspetives. Don't forget to check out their work along with all the other artists' highlighted here on our blog at DeVos Place during Art Prize. You may even be able to meet some and buy their work at Art Fair 2010.

ArtPrize 2010, an international art contest decided solely by public vote, officially begins Wednesday, September 22 and runs to Sunday, October 10.

Don't miss Art Fair 2010!
During ArtPrize, thousands of people will be in Grand Rapids for one reason: to see, experience and discuss art. And thanks to Art Fair, every one of them can browse or buy artwork* from over 50 registered ArtPrize artists. Held in centrally-located DeVos Place, at the heart of the ArtPrize district, Art Fair 2010 provides another exciting way for artists and the public to connect. Wander through our booths at DeVos Place to find a one-of-a-kind piece of art that speaks to you.

*Artwork entered in ArtPrize is not available for purchase

ArtPrize Profiles Pouring In: Benjamin Raap & Deanna Bowdish

Have you ever said to yourself, “Man I can’t do anything right today?”

Well, that is the way Ben Raap has felt for the last five years, that is, until he heard of the Grand Rapids ArtPrize. Read more about Ben, his thoughts and his work by clicking here for a brief bio. Good luck, Ben!

Continuing to highlight ArtPrize artists exhibiting their work at DeVos Place, here we have a video of abstract artist, Deanna Bowdish. Click on http://blogs.islandpacket.com/38796 to watch Bowden speak on her work!

Deanna is owner of her own gallery in Beaufort, South Carolina, called "The Gallery". Good luck, Deanna!

ArtPrize 2010, an international art contest decided solely by public vote, officially begins Wednesday, September 22 and runs to Sunday, October 10.

Don't miss Art Fair 2010!
During ArtPrize, thousands of people will be in Grand Rapids for one reason: to see, experience and discuss art. And thanks to Art Fair, every one of them can browse or buy artwork* from over 50 registered ArtPrize artists. Held in centrally-located DeVos Place, at the heart of the ArtPrize district, Art Fair 2010 provides another exciting way for artists and the public to connect. Wander through our booths at DeVos Place to find a one-of-a-kind piece of art that speaks to you.

*Artwork entered in ArtPrize is not available for purchase

Friday, September 10, 2010

Grand Rapids Young Professionals Present A New Conversation: VOTE! Be The Change You Want To See

Join ‘A New Conversation’ on Wednesday, October 13 for the Grand Rapids Young Professionals’ second annual community conversation as they present VOTE! Be the Change You Want to See.

This year's VOTE! Be the Change You Want to See event features Lauri Parks, Grand Rapids City Clerk who will speak about the issues facing us in the upcoming elections. A panel discussion between young professional representatives from the Democratic, Green, Libertarian and Republican parties will follow, engaging conversation on the current political climate and issues impacting our community.

Participants may also tweet #ANCVOTE to have questions answered via Twitter throughout the panel discussion. DeVos Place Convention Center will host this event from 5:30-8:00 p.m. on October 13. The public can register at http://anewconversation.eventbrite.com/

This event is free of charge and open to the public. Online registration is required by Friday, Oct 8. We will be collecting 100% fruit juice boxes to be donated to Kids Food Basket.

A New Conversation began as a collaborative effort in 2009 between leaders of five area professional organizations: Asian Professional Organization, BL²END, Grand Rapids Young Professionals, West Michigan Hispanic Chamber of Commerce and Young Nonprofit Professionals Network and in collaboration with the SMG/DeVos Place Convention Center.

Thursday, September 9, 2010

Fall Bridal Show of West Michigan Next Week at DeVos Place!

The memories of a lifetime start now! Plan your wedding all under one roof!Kicking off the wedding season, the Sixth Annual Fall Bridal Show of West Michigan on September 17-18, is a two-day show in DeVos Place.

All under one roof, a variety of exhibits will be on hand, including an exhibit featuring "Seasons of Love." "Elegant decor highlighting the four seasons of love will give you the visual you need for a beautiful setting...." says Denise Kolesar, President of Kohler Expos.

The event will feature traditional exhibits and vendors—bridal and tuxedo shops, wedding cake ideas, reception facilities, etc.—to non-traditional topics such as destination weddings, cosmetics and health, and Espresso Catering Bars.

There will be show discounts from vendors and even an opportunity to register to win cash and prizes.The event will be held from 5-9 p.m. on Friday, Sept. 17, and 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Saturday, Sept. 18.

More than 300 bridal gowns will be displayed during three runway fashion shows throughout the weekend. Runway Designer Gowns include: Maggie Sottero, Casablanca, Alfred Angelo, After Six, Venus Bridal, Bella Bridal and more. Runway fashion shows presented Friday evening at 7 p.m. and Saturday at 12 and 2 p.m.

Admission is $6 at the door. Discount coupons are available on-line by visiting website http://www.kohlerexpo.com/. More information is available on the Internet at http://www.kohlerexpo.com/.

Tuesday, September 7, 2010

Broadway Grand Rapids' 2010-2011 Season Opens Tonight with Rodgers and Hammerstein's South Pacific! Get Your Tickets Now!!!

Broadway Grand Rapids officially kicks off the 2010-2011 season tonight with the opening show of "Rodgers and Hammerstein's South Pacific"!

The Tony Awards-winning production begins at 7:30PM at the DeVos Performance Hall with the doors opening an hour prior.

Tickets are available at the Van Andel Arena and DeVos Performance Hall box offices, Ticketmaster ticket centers, charge by phone at 1.800.745.3000 and online at ticketmaster.com. Get your tickets now!!!

Click here for more information.

South Pacific runs from tonight to Sunday, September 12th.

Upcoming Broadway Grand Rapids shows include "Legally Blonde", "In The Heights", "Grease", and "Chicago" just to name a few. Click here for a full Broadway GR schedule and for more information.

Hope to see you there!!!

Thursday, September 2, 2010

More ArtPrize Profiles Keep Opening ArtPrize Curtains: Professor Richard Brinn

The Professor is in!
Professor Richard Brinn has been both an educator and working artist in Michigan for over 45 years. He's exhibited throughout the Midwest in various galleries, museums and juried exhibitions. Good luck, Richard!

Click here to visit our Facebook Fan Page for a brief bio on Richard and his work.

ArtPrize 2010, an international art contest decided solely by public vote, officially begins Wednesday, September 22 and runs to Sunday, October 10.

Don't miss Art Fair 2010!
During ArtPrize, thousands of people will be in Grand Rapids for one reason: to see, experience and discuss art. And thanks to Art Fair, every one of them can browse or buy artwork* from over 50 registered ArtPrize artists. Held in centrally-located DeVos Place, at the heart of the ArtPrize district, Art Fair 2010 provides another exciting way for artists and the public to connect. Wander through our booths at DeVos Place to find a one-of-a-kind piece of art that speaks to you.

*Artwork entered in ArtPrize is not available for purchase.

Wednesday, September 1, 2010

ArtPrize art continues initial treks to DeVos Place: A Profile of Paul Collins

It is our pleasure to introduce artist and ArtPrize participant, Paul Collins, and his work, "Pause and Reflect". Good luck, Paul!

Click here to visit our Facebook Fan Page for a brief bio on Paul and his work.

ArtPrize 2010, an international art contest decided solely by public vote, officially begins Wednesday, September 22 and runs to Sunday, October 10.

Don't miss Art Fair 2010!
During ArtPrize, thousands of people will be in Grand Rapids for one reason: to see, experience and discuss art. And thanks to Art Fair, every one of them can browse or buy artwork* from over 50 registered ArtPrize artists. Held in centrally-located DeVos Place, at the heart of the ArtPrize district, Art Fair 2010 provides another exciting way for artists and the public to connect. Wander through our booths at DeVos Place to find a one-of-a-kind piece of art that speaks to you.

*Artwork entered in ArtPrize is not available for purchase.

DeVos Place to Host ArtPrize Opening Reception


DeVos Place will open its ArtPrize 2010 exhibition with a public reception September 22, 2010 at 6PM. The complimentary reception will be held inside DeVos Place with the exhibition viewed while strolling along the DeVos Place Skywalk and is free of charge as well.

The community is encouraged to enjoy first-hand entries from 53 artists, many of whom will be in attendance, in a celebratory environment of music, light hors d’oeuvres, and a cash bar.

The Shea/Lawrence/Heredia Trio, quickly becoming one of the most requested jazz trios in West Michigan, will be serenading attendees with their “easy going, mellow style.”

DeVos Place will also be hosting Art Fair 2010 during ArtPrize for the weekend of September 24-26. Here, patrons can browse and purchase artwork while viewing those 53 exhibitions and installations entered in ArtPrize. Those exhibiting their artwork include former collegiate/professional football star, actor, and artist, Bernie Casey along with well-respected local artist, Paul Collins (collinsart.com) among many talented others.

DeVos Place is managed by SMG. Since 1977, SMG has provided management services to more than 220 public assembly facilities worldwide, including arenas, stadiums, theatres and performing arts centers, equestrian facilities, convention, congress and exhibition centers, science centers and a variety of other venues. Across the globe, SMG manages more than 11 million square feet (1.1 million square meters) of exhibition space and over 1.5 million arena and theatre seats. As the recognized global industry leader, SMG provides venue management, sales, marketing, event booking and programming, construction and design consulting, and pre opening services. SMG also offers food and beverage operations through its concessions and catering company SAVOR, currently serving more than 100 accounts worldwide. For additional company information, visit www.smgworld.com

ArtPrize art continues initial treks to DeVos Place: Ana Zalovsky brins her ArtPrize entry in!

Ana Zalovsky is the second of 53 artists to showcase their art at DeVos Place. Good luck, Ana!

Click here to visit our Facebook Fan Page for a brief bio on Ana and her work.

ArtPrize 2010, an international art contest decided solely by public vote, officially begins Wednesday, September 22 and runs to Sunday, October 10.

Don't miss Art Fair 2010!
During ArtPrize, thousands of people will be in Grand Rapids for one reason: to see, experience and discuss art. And thanks to Art Fair, every one of them can browse or buy artwork* from over 50 registered ArtPrize artists. Held in centrally-located DeVos Place, at the heart of the ArtPrize district, Art Fair 2010 provides another exciting way for artists and the public to connect. Wander through our booths at DeVos Place to find a one-of-a-kind piece of art that speaks to you.

*Artwork entered in ArtPrize is not available for purchase.