Walk of Art
In cooperation with Antrim County, Art Rapids has created a Walk of Art outdoor sculpture gallery in the county’s Elk Rapids Day Park on South Bay Shore Drive. In addition to the sculptures, the park is also host to classes and workshops, concerts, and various other activities.
The concept is an extension of the organization’s mission to enhance and promote the arts in the Elk Rapids area. The Day Park comprises about 15 acres of forest, dune, and a quarter mile of beach frontage along East Grand Traverse Bay on Lake Michigan. It has public restrooms, a picnic pavilion with handicapped access from a 90-car parking lot, numerous foot trails, and picnic sites with charcoal grills and tables. Enhancing the Day Park with sculptures has provided another way to enjoy art and nature, made more people aware of this lovely park, and attracted more visitors to the community. To reserve the Deborah Wentworth Pavilion, call Antrim County Parks @ 231-599-2712
Sculptures selected by a jury will be placed on display for one to three years. A three-year maximum is intended to keep the exhibits new and interesting. Most of the sculptures are available for purchase.
The sculpture gallery opened in May of 2013 with six selected sculptures. It has expanded each year and now features 30+ pieces. The entrance to the park is marked by a commissioned sign created by Art Brown of Torch Tip Ironworks.
In 2013, Art Rapids received the prestigious “Keep Michigan Beautiful” award for the Walk of Art project.
This park is DOG FRIENDLY and open year-round with a walk-in gate during winter hours. A stroll through the park and waterfront usually takes 30-40 minutes. Restrooms are closed from October-May. Handicap accessibility is limited depending on the disability of the visitor. From the Parking lot to the Pavilion, wheelchairs would generally be an option. Throughout the park some paths can get narrow, sandy, and the beachfront would be difficult. Many picnic tables/grill sites are along the beachfront. The Walk of Art is funded by private gifts and donations.
Walk of Art group tours are available. Please contact us with your request and someone will contact you.