This winter, Van Andel Arena partnered with
Lions & Rabbits Center for the Arts to create two murals located in Van Andel Arena’s west suite/ADA entrance, located on Ottawa Avenue, and the connecting hallway.
The murals were created by local Grand Rapids artists and display graphics that represent the city and the variety of events the arena hosts. The murals will be visible to guests entering and exiting the venue through this entrance as well as guests enjoying the pre-show experience available in the arena’s new
Acrisure Lounge.
“We are thrilled to bring our walls to life with the help of local artists,” said ASM Global Regional General Manager for Van Andel Arena, Richard MacKeigan. “Both artists did an amazing job depicting our venue’s offerings and our place in the Grand Rapids community. It’s always a pleasure when we are able to incorporate local arts and culture into what we do and we appreciate the talent and hard work of these fantastic artists.”
Lions & Rabbits sent out a request for proposal to local artists based on the project commissioned by Van Andel Arena. The works by local artists
Devin DuMond and
Josh Bradley were selected as the best fit for the theme and vision of the project. Both artists specialize in murals, and DuMond and Bradley were able to depict Van Andel Arena and the Grand Rapids area with vibrancy and color to create a fun and welcoming space to replace previously blank walls.
“When working with a client or collaborator, I try to make sure that the work I am creating is what is asked for and needed,” says DuMond. “I enjoy creating work that reflects the space it is in and can connect with the local community. I'd say my mural work is all about that: community.”
About Lions & Rabbits Lions & Rabbits is a non-profit organization that creates paid job opportunities through public art projects to support artists’ freelance careers, professional development, and portfolio expansion. The group also hosts After Dark events, an annual summer series of fun, engaging, and community-building fundraising events that directly support artist job opportunities. Additionally, the organization specializes in community advocacy with a development program working to advance arts-driven communities to create additional resources for local artists and establish supportive cities for the arts.
About ASM Global
Van Andel Arena, DeVos Place and DeVos Performance Hall are managed by ASM Global. ASM Global is the world’s leading producer of entertainment experiences. It is the global leader in venue and event strategy and management—delivering locally tailored solutions and cutting-edge technologies to achieve maximum results for venue owners. The company’s elite venue network spans five continents, with a portfolio of more than 350 of the world’s most prestigious arenas, stadiums, convention, and exhibition centers, and performing arts venues Follow us on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn and Twitter. asmglobal.com.
####