Grand Rapids, Mich. – For the first time in its history, the Gerald R. Ford International Airport (GFIA) is a venue for ArtPrize. The annual art competition, which begins on September 20, will feature seven artists displaying their work in the Airport – including the upstairs observation deck, east end of the terminal building, and outdoors under the trademark GFIA canopy & welcome wall.
GFIA has been a sponsor and welcoming point for artists and visitors for several years, and decided to sign on as a venue for the 9th annual art competition, given the connection to the community and the access point for both inbound and outbound travelers.
“We are thrilled to be a part of ArtPrize in more ways than one, and serving as a venue will not only give visitors a first impression of our city; but it will hopefully bring in those from around West Michigan into the airport to see the art and check out our newest facilities,” said GFIA President & CEO Jim Gill. “The Ford Airport strives to be reflective of the people and events in West Michigan, and what better opportunity is there to do so other than partner with ArtPrize? We look forward to welcoming in both local and international artists, and look forward to seeing their talents on display.”
ArtPrize is an open, independently organized international art competition which takes place for 19 days each fall in Grand Rapids, Michigan. More than five hundred thousand dollars in prizes are awarded each year, which include a $200,000 prize awarded entirely by public vote and another $200,000 prize awarded by a jury of art experts.
"In addition to their stunning renovations, we are excited to expand the ArtPrize boundaries to include The Gerald R. Ford International Airport allowing visitors from all over the world to experience -- and vote for -- the work of ArtPrize Artists on their first and last stop in West Michigan,” said Christian Gaines, Executive Director of ArtPrize.
Featured artists in the Airport include:
- TOTEM of a Michigan Woman – by Sharron Ansell, Kalamazoo, Michigan
- Sanutario de la Monarca – by Dalice Ceballos, Sonora, Mexico
- We are Fruitport Building on a Legacy – by Fruitport High School Visual Arts Team
- Our Love Connects All Happiness – by Haruko Furukawa, Christchurch, New Zealand
- Fly Away With Me – by Mariia Rykhlovska, Los Angeles, California
- Elements of a Japanese Garden – by Judy A. Steiner, Grand Rapids, Michigan
- Kitty Hawk – by Brett Walker, East Tawas, Michigan
ArtPrize runs from September 20 through October 8, 2017. For more information on the event, including how to vote; visit www.artprize.org
About GFIA
The Gerald R. Ford International Airport (GFIA) is the second busiest airport in Michigan. The airport served over 2.6 million passengers in 2016 and over 7,000 travelers pass through GFIA each day. The Gerald R. Ford International Airport offers nonstop service to 24 major market destinations with more than 120 daily nonstop flights. The Gerald R. Ford International Airport is managed and operated by the Gerald R. Ford International Airport Authority. GFIA generates over $3.1 billion in annual economic output throughout West Michigan, and employs over 1,500 people. For more information on GFIA visit: www.flyford.org or follow the airport on Twitter: @FlyGRFord
