Art for the Masses

How many of us go to museums regularly?  How often do we argue over a sculpture or painting’s merit?  Unsurprisingly, most would answer “rarely” or “never” (self included).  Art criticism has long been the “old money” domain of the upper class and academics, beyond the grasp of the common, unspecialized man.  Yet one competition in Grand Rapids, Michigan, has defied convention with experiment and bestowed art to the masses.

ArtPrize, in its fifth year, is an open arts competition that radically challenges the status quo of art criticism, offering $560,000 in cash for prizes–$360,000 of which is decided by the public.  The event’s 400,000 visitors vote for their favorite works out of roughly 1,500 pieces, which are spread throughout the downtown.

Witnessing this phenomenon in my hometown of Grand Rapids has been awe-inspiring.  With a sweeping democratic motion, the city transforms overnight; for three weeks, coffee shops and street corners become art galleries, and any adult with internet access becomes the new critic of what makes “good art.”  There are few (if any) events of its scope and scale, where artists form personal relationships and images in the minds of a newly interested public.

“It’s unorthodox, highly disruptive, and undeniably intriguing to the art world and the public alike.” -ArtPrize

Photo Credit: Joachim Jensen

Granted, such an open platform attracts many examples of poor craftsmanship or pieces that fulfill the simplistic stereotype of “bigger is better” (see image of the infamous Steampig).  Some have argued that the uneducated public will vote for these monstrous cheap tricks, rather than what counts as “quality art.”  However, ArtPrize has consistently defied these expectations as the public repeatedly chooses well-thought-out pieces as winners, works that reflect the good and the beautiful in life.

Mia Tavonatti, “Crucifixion”

I understand art as essentially communicative, some created object that rewards the contemplation of a passerby.  While prior knowledge may be needed to fully understand and appreciate a piece, it should be generally comprehensible to all; the average person should gain something from the experience (beyond mere confusion or rejection).  ArtPrize is helping the arts community reawaken to this reality.  Competitors must connect with everyone to win, with us.  Likewise, as everyone has a natural sense of the good and beautiful, perhaps such reflections on art will enable us to better sense and foster it in ourselves.