Students Making Art with a Renewable Theme is a partnership between Consumers Energy, ArtPrize and Grand Rapids Public Schools, focusing on clean energy-related subjects, open to GRPS students in 9th-11th grade.
The top three student artists shared the inspiration behind their pieces.
Southwest Middle High sophomore Aliva Phillips used recycled glass and wilting plastic flowers, inspired by the California wildfires.
“That’s what made me think of burning the flowers and creating solar panels reviving them.”
City High School senior Elliot Williamson used recycled wood to depict three forms of renewable energy: solar, wind, and hydropower.
“I wanted to focus on a brighter future and how renewable energy sources can lower carbon emissions and fossil fuels and we can have a better environment in the future.”
Innovation Central High junior Samya Alford created an image of herself as an African American artist in a changing world.
“That’s where the flowers come in, the flower afro and the butterflies which are actually endangered species who’s habitats are being threatened due to deforestation and other effects of climate change.”
Winners will be announced at the ArtPrize Opening Ceremony Friday, and will receive cash, laptops, iPads and Meijer gift cards.
Artwork by all 20 GRPS contestants will be on display throughout Art Prize at Grand Rapids City Hall.
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