Open Air ArtScape Will Kick Off Detroit River Days

DETROIT (WWJ) - The Detroit RiverWalk will be home to the city's newest art installation beginning Monday.

It's all part of the ArtScape competition, where 15 art installations created by local artists will be judged both by the public and a jury of professionals said Lisa Konikow Art Director for ArtScape.

"We're just able to attract some very, very fine artists ... just spectacular - each grassy area is called a gallery, (Gallery 1, Gallery 2, Gallery 3) and then there are 3-4 large pieces in each gallery," said Konikow.

Konikow told WWJ that the show is fantastic and "it leads into Detroit River Days - so it's a whole week - but the first few days all you can see is the artwork."

The work of local artist Ray Katz, and New York City artist Mitchell Schorr, who just completed a lengthy mural along the RiverWalk, will be on display.

Among the installations: A three-dimensional tire sculpture created by 31 General Motors employees.

The Detroit River ArtScape begins Monday, June 16 and runs through the GM River Days festival from June 20-22. The juried show, which also features "People Choice" awards, will offer $16,000 in prizes courtesy of the Knight Foundation.

Find more information on ArtScape and Detroit River Days [HERE]