By Deborah Reed
WKTV Managing Editor
deborah@wktv.org
The annual international art competition, ArtPrize, is an 18-day event in Grand Rapids that exhibits art in galleries, storefronts, parks, museums, and public venues of all kinds. This year, ArtPrize features 950 artists and 150 exhibition venues.
One such artist is sculptor Ryan McCallister.
“Count On Me” is an eight-foot tall and eight-foot wide 3D warrior goddess sculpture made of stainless steel, river rock, and stained glass. Inspired by Valkyries and angels, McCallister created “Count On Me” to celebrate women leaders and warriors who exuded courage and power.
Based out of Cave Creek, Arizona, McCallister always knew art would be his destiny.
“I need to pour my soul into something, and my sculptures are a distillation of those desires,” McCallister said in his ArtPrize bio. “Each work of art is an attempt at showcasing human stories and potential, while highlighting the magic that comes from searching for deeper meaning in life.”
McCallister hopes his sculptures transport the viewer to another reality, and that they feel the passion and magic of his works.
ArtPrize is free, open to the public, and celebrates ideas, conversations, experimentation, and inclusiveness.
“Count On Me” can be found outside the Amway Grand Plaza Hotel, 187 Monroe NW, Grand Rapids.
