In a statement released Sunday, ArtPrize addressed social media backlash surrounding its voting platform, FlockX.
Organizers clarified that the Grand Rapids tech startup has no connection to Flock Safety, the manufacturer of license plate readers whose cameras and data collection practices have come under fire nationwide.
ArtPrize leaders emphasized FlockX uses temporary location tracking solely to verify that votes are cast by real people in downtown Grand Rapids and to prevent bot manipulation.
Officials stressed that the platform does not collect artwork images, store personal data, track movements outside the event or sell information to third parties.
ArtPrize also addressed online questions regarding the use of artificial intelligence in entries, noting some use of generative AI is allowed in the “New Media” category.
They promise to reevaluate guidelines in the off-season with input from artists.
ArtPrize runs through October 3.
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