Founders brewing gets artsy with ArtPrize sponsorship

ArtPrize, the international art competition, announced that Founders Brewing Co. has signed on as a premier leadership sponsor and will be the official brewery of ArtPrize for the next five years. The agreement will allow both brands to capitalize on their respective platforms and nationwide growth.

“We approached ArtPrize because we love this community, and we love what the event has done for this city,” said Mike Stevens, co-founder and chief executive officer of Founders Brewing Co. “Our taproom has been a venue since year one, so we anticipate ArtPrize, just like everyone else. We chose to increase our commitment this year and can’t wait to pair our world-class beer with the most engaging art event in the world.”

Elements of the partnership include offering Founders beer at all official ArtPrize events, signage, promotion, merchandise, specialized glassware and other specialized items during the 19-day event. Additionally, the brewery will be recognized as a major sponsor at all ArtPrize events and will be featured on the ArtPrize promotional poster.

“ArtPrize is always open to new, strategic ways to partner with leading and emerging national brands. We couldn’t be more excited to welcome them as the exclusive brewery of ArtPrize,” said Daryn Kuipers, interim executive director for ArtPrize. “Both Founders and ArtPrize are two organizations that are defining Grand Rapids’ reemergence. Both organizations have heritage, values and roots in this community and will make an excellent partnership.”

With its mix of public voting and juried awards, ArtPrize explores the tension between the professional and populist in an epic conversation. The fifth edition of the popular art competition will take place Sept. 18 – Oct. 6, 2013. Artist Registration for the 2013 event will open on April 22.