Art Walk Central kicks off 13th competition on August 1Q&A with Art Reach’s executive director, Amy Powell

Artwork from across the state will be on display throughout Mt. Pleasant this month as part of Art Reach of Mid Michigan’s annual Art Walk Central. The 13th Annual Art Walk Central is a competitive event, where artists have the opportunity to showcase their art publicly across Mt. Pleasant—and be awarded prizes. From August 1 through 24, artwork will be on display at a variety of local vendors, displaying artwork created by all ages, for the community to enjoy. 

Epicenter Mt. Pleasant chatted with Art Reach of Mid Michigan’s executive director, Amy Powell, to learn about the new additions to 2024’s Art Walk Central.

Photo Courtesy Art Reach of Mid Michigan

Epicenter Mt. Pleasant: Can you share with us the story about how Art Walk Central began? 
Amy Powell: Art Walk Central was designed to be an opportunity for artists to showcase their work, in a competition, for the local community, before heading to Art Prize in Grand Rapids. The opportunity would give artists a chance to fine-tune any items AND give the mid-Michigan area the opportunity to see and engage with art.

Epicenter: Now that we’re in its 13th year, the competition has evolved over time. Who are some of the artists from across the state that will be competing this year?
Powell: Without singling out any specific artists, we have artists from throughout the region—many of whom have competed in Art Walk Central since the very first year. ​

Epicenter: And new for 2024 is the expansion of including youth artists. What can we expect to see from these young artists in the month-long art competition?
Powell: We have two youths this year, and we're thrilled that there are two willing to take the risk to have their work on display. Part of the stress for artists is having people look at, critique, and evaluate their work. Artists put their heart and soul into creating, so when their most vulnerable parts are out there for the world to see, it can be quite anxiety inducing. We fully expect that the youth contingency will continue to grow as Art Walk Central evolves. 

Epicenter: Who are this year’s jurors?
Powell: This year's judges are Leslie Donaldson (visual artist, art administrator) and Joey Quiñones (fiber artist).  

Epicenter: How does the community get to vote, too?
Powell: First, we hope that everyone will get out to see the art on display as an outreach for the community. Second, everyone can vote for their favorite work. New this year we are shifting the people's choice voting to a token system. Each person (all ages) can receive 10 tokens per day, to vote for their favorite work. In past years voters had to register and get activated, which prevented those under 13 years from being able to vote. This year we will collect minimal data and that will allow everyone, regardless of age, to vote. Each entry will have a box, and voters will drop tokens in the box of the work they hope wins! Tokens will be available for free at Art Reach and the CMU Art Gallery.

Epicenter: In addition to the art completion, there are events and activities that are throughout the month of August. What are some of your favorites that you’re looking most forward to? 
Powell: I think my most favorite event of Art Walk Central is the Judges Roundtable. I consider myself to be a vocalist, so looking at other forms of art, I sometimes don't understand or appreciate the meaning, quality, or artistry of the work. The judges are amazing at showcasing all of the positives of the work, and describing the reasons for the work making the top of the list. During this event, which is free and open to the public, the judges will unveil the Top 5 Adult, Top 5 Teen, and Top Youth Artists, in alphabetical order. I absolutely love the enlightenment that happens for me during this event. After the Judges Roundtable, I make sure to revisit the pieces for an even greater appreciation.

Epicenter: If you were to share one big tip with those who are first-time Art Walk Central admirers, what would that be? 
Powell: Art Reach wants to make sure everyone can enjoy the art, so please stop by to ask questions, pick up a brochure, and make sure to take in the free art at locations throughout the community.