As part of the eighth annual ArtPrize competition, Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park is hosting 13 artists in an exhibition titled Almost Home: Grand Rapids in Focus. These artists were chosen based on their ties to West Michigan.
In contrast to recent exhibitions at Meijer Gardens that have been curated with a more global focus, this exhibition holds a mirror to our local community for consideration by a diverse audience that includes a broad spectrum of visitors and residents alike.
Each artist was asked to create a new work that reflects on their experiences with Grand Rapids and the notion of “home.” Cultural, social, environmental and aesthetic reflections connect the works through a variety of materials, installations and forms. Viewed as a whole, this exhibition provides a current framework for a place that, for many, has become home.
“This is a unique exhibition for Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park to celebrate Grand Rapids through the perspective of such a talented and diverse group of artists,” said Joseph Becherer, Chief Curator and Vice President of Exhibitions and Collections. “Each artist has a special connection to the city and has offered an original reflection on it.”
Officially beginning the Friday prior to ArtPrize, Almost Home: Grand Rapids in Focus will be on display as Meijer Gardens’ fall exhibition from September 16 through December 31, 2016.
"This community was built on rich traditions, but it also is experiencing dynamic cultural and economic growth—this exhibition honors this. All sculptures and installations were created specifically for this exhibition, reflecting the social and historical, industries and enterprises, the natural and the creative forces that helped shape Grand Rapids.” said Becherer.
Meijer Gardens is an official ArtPrize venue. Almost Home: Grand Rapids in Focus will be free of charge during ArtPrize (September 21– October 9, 2016). Almost Home: Grand Rapids in Focus exhibition areas will be open to the public during Meijer Gardens’ regular business hours, as well as official ArtPrize hours (Sundays 11 a.m. to 6 p.m.; Mondays, Wednesday-Saturday, 9 a.m. to 8 p.m.; Tuesdays 9 a.m. to 9 p.m.). On ArtPrize’s opening day, the public will be able to register to vote in ArtPrize and ArtPrize exhibition areas will be on display from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. All other areas of Meijer Gardens observe regular hours and standard admission fees.
Visitors can register to vote and purchase official ArtPrize merchandise at Meijer Gardens.
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