Throughout the ArtPrize years with over 270,000 individuals personally interacting with my healing work by writing notes, signing names, hanging paper prayers, or tying ribbons, I have gained a decade of experience as the maker of participatory artwork. But I also have had to learn—how to flow—with the interactive nature of each work from some…
Recently, we witnessed the historic youth march in D.C., remembered the 19th anniversary of the Columbine High tragedy, and learned about many young people suffering from bullying. Meanwhile, some current solutions only seem to trigger more verbal bullets and political bullying. But to help our kids break out of the cocoon—those who are hurting, isolated,…
After being voted on the homecoming court as a cruel joke, Whitney, a Michigan teen, decided to stand up to her whole high school. But her journey wasn’t easy. Responding to the negative butterfly effect, she said, “I feel like trash.” Whitney even considered ending her life. But with her sister’s influence, Whitney opted for…
Broken Wings invites individuals on a new journey. While some of the traditional arguments over bullying and school gun violence are stalemated, why not consider new ways—different ways—on solving our national problem? How could each of us personally help to make a difference? For ArtPrize Ten, we are inviting visitors to consider starting a positive…
Recently, a friend challenged me to rethink my ArtPrize Ten entry by introducing me to Marcel Duchamp’s work called, Fountain (1917): a porcelain urinal turned upside down and signed with a fake name: “R. Mutt.” While Duchamp’s contemporaries showcased their highly skilled work, which no one can remember anymore, Duchamp transformed a urinal into art.…
Me and that first ArtPrize now years ago? Let’s just say that when I began ArtPrize, I traveled a very steep learning curve. I didn’t know how to use a computer. I couldn’t remember ever attending a formal speech class. And I had very little training in writing. And all of these skills are essential…
The creative journey brings wonderful surprises as I meet other creative soul mates along the way. When some of these relationships turn into collaborative partnerships, I am especially excited. So, may I introduce my very special friend, Marijo Heemstra? Marijo has worked behind the scenes on our healing work with Broken Wings, Let Go, Color…