By Hilarie Szarowicz
DeVos Place
ArtPrize is in full swing and DeVos Place painter, Scott Luce, of Grand Rapids, is enjoying the results of his hours of hard work leading up to the competition. Luce works with artists every year to help install their pieces in the convention center, but is also an artist and craftsman himself. He recently participated in the 2017 Tennessee Tiny House Festival with his Gypsy Queen Bowtop camper on Sept.r 8-10. With more than 35 homes, micro-houses, skoolies, DIYs, vintage campers, and other minis registered for the Tiny House Festival, Luce’s custom DIY-built Gypsy wagon won “Best Bohemian Living.” Luce’s entry was also the only camper to win an award that weekend.
“This was the first time I attended a festival like this, and I was inspired by all the beautiful tiny houses and great ideas that were being shown,” said Luce. His Gypsy wagon was custom built with a fold-up feature that seemed to amaze everyone at the festival. He hosted four demonstrations during the week, all which had great attendance. He was presented with a hand crafted, wood-burned plaque for his win.
Scott Luce is also a familiar face at DeVos Place during ArtPrize as an artist. In 2012, he entered Grand Illumination, an abstract architectural sculpture representing the synergy of historic materials with a modern twist. Luce’s piece was carved from the granite steps of what used to be the historic Grand Rapids Civic Auditorium. Joined by three multi-colored lanterns, the antique Italian glass originated from six ceiling lights from the former venue.
“It was my intent, with this piece, to honor the grandeur and timeless beauty of the Civic, while recognizing the modern beauty found in our current DeVos Place Convention Center,” said Luce.
DeVos Place is hosting 53 ArtPrize entries this year. “El Sueno Americano (The American Dream)” by Tom Kiefer made the Juried Awards Shortlist and two pieces have been named as Top 20 Public Vote finalists: “Crowns of Courage” by Amanda Gilbert, David Burgess and Steven Stone and Early January on the Pearl Street Bridge by Melodee Jackson.
