What is Art Walk Central?

Art Walk Central is an art competition aimed at public engagement. It will take place in Mt. Pleasant, Michigan from August 1 through 25, 2012. Public spaces in Mt. Pleasant (including parks and town center), downtown Mt. Pleasant merchants and local business owners will serve as venues for this competition. The public will vote for the People’s Choice Award in both Youth and Adult categories.

Who can participate in Art Walk Central?

Art Walk Central is open to artists ages 12 and up. The youth category will include artists aged 12-17. The adult category will include artists aged 18 and over.

Are there prizes involved?

Yes! $22,000 in prize money will be awarded as follows:

Who will determine the winners?

Throughout the competition, public viewers will be given the opportunity to vote for their favorite performance or piece of art. Voting will take place via computer or text messaging and will be secure so that each person may vote only one time. The Adult Category artist receiving the most votes will win a prize of $10,000. This will be called the “People’s Choice” award. Youth Category award for this prize will be $1,000.

In addition, an independent art juror (or jurors) will select a piece that is considered to be the best “artistic” entry. The winner of this award will receive $10,000 for adults and $1,000 for youth. This will be called the “Best Juried Piece” award. The same piece may be awarded both prizes if it is selected by both the juror and the public.

What media will be accepted?

All media will be accepted. All types of performance art will also be eligible as entries in this competition.

How do venues register to participate in Art Walk Central?

Venues will be invited to register for Art Walk Central via www.artwalkcentral.com. Venue registration will begin on February 1, 2012 and conclude on March 30, 2012.

How do artists register to participate in Art Walk Central?

Artists may register for Art Walk Central via www.artwalkcentral.com. Artist registration will begin on April 2, 2012 and conclude on April 27, 2012. There is a $30 fee to submit an application.

Who will decide where art work will be exhibited?

Registered artists will be given the names and contact information of participating venues via www.artwalkcentral.com. Venues will list dimensions of available display and/or performance spaces. Artists will be responsible for contacting participating venues to secure display/performance space for their art.

Who is responsible for installing and striking my installation?

Artists are responsible for installation and striking of their art work. Installation must be complete by Saturday, July 28, 2012. De-installing must be complete by Saturday, September 8, 2012. All art work must remain at the venue from August 1 through August 25, 2012.