GRAND RAPIDS, MI (WKZO AM/FM) — A massive art competition that brings thousands to the Grand Rapids area will not take place this year.
On Wednesday the board of directors for ArtPrize 2020 announced that they are canceling the event due to coronavirus concerns.
The event was scheduled to take place from September 16th to October 4th in downtown Grand Rapids.
In a written statement, ArtPrize board member Marc Schwartz said, “Everyone had hoped to find modifications that would enable us to host the exhibition safely. We initially shifted plans to focus on outdoor spaces and large indoor venues. However, after analyzing the situation further and considering the unknowns, we realized that hosting such an event was not the best course forward. Although very disappointing, we believe it is the best decision to ensure the well-being of our constituents.”
The nonprofit that runs the art competition also said it is pausing all operations to “evaluate the possibility of future events.”
Artist and venue registration fees will be refunded.
