The Rich History of the Michigan Contemporary Art Exhibition

Exhibit at Muskegon Museum of Art showcasing different styles of artwork; on the left is a colorful abstract geometric painting, and in the center a suspended sculpture composed of a cluster of multicolored butterflies.

The Michigan Contemporary Art Exhibition at the Muskegon Museum of Art is the longest-running regional art exhibition in Michigan. For over 90 years, it has supported Michigan artists, offering them the chance to exhibit and sell their work in a museum setting alongside their peers.

The exhibition began in 1929 as the Regional Exhibition, limited to West Michigan residents. In 2019, it expanded statewide and was renamed the Michigan Contemporary Art Exhibition, providing more artists from across the state an opportunity to participate.

While artistic styles, techniques, and media have evolved over the decades, the exhibition’s mission has remained consistent—to showcase the themes and talents that inspire Michigan artists today.

Behind the Scenes: The Selection Process

Person standing with their back facing the camera, looking up at a sky painted with white clouds on a blue background at the Muskegon Museum of Art. Two people viewing a hanging art installation featuring several sculpted straw birds at at the Muskegon Museum of Art.

The Michigan Contemporary is a juried exhibition, with a juror carefully selecting each piece of art. Before digital applications, artists had to physically bring their works to the museum, limiting participation to local residents. With the shift to digital submissions, the exhibition opened to all Michigan artists, making the process more accessible.

Each April, the call for submissions opens, and Michigan artists aged 18 and older can submit up to two works through Café, an online platform linked on the Muskegon Museum of Art’s website. Submissions are due by mid-July, and the selection process is anonymous. Each year, a new juror, typically a respected artist with a notable resume, is chosen by museum staff, adding diversity to the exhibition.

Opportunity to Purchase Artwork

Interior view of Muskegon Museum of Art featuring a bold yellow geometric sculpture in the foreground and various artworks on the walls, including paintings and photographs. A sculpture of interlocking metal ribbons is displayed on a pedestal in the center of an art gallery. Behind it are three paintings hanging on the wall, each showcasing different styles and subjects.

Artists exhibiting in the Michigan Contemporary can choose to list their work for sale. Many local collectors and businesses purchase pieces from the show, supporting both the artists and the museum. Art sold through the exhibition is handled by the MMA Museum Store, with a 30% commission going to the museum.

Prize Process and Recognition

Artist Tryst Reid standing between two framed portraits Muskegon Museum of Art, smiling at the camera. The photographs feature close-up portraits of individuals adorned with cultural accessories. Artist Bryan Hoffman stands next to a large painting featuring a seated figure against a background with orange polka dots. The painting is colorful and expressive.

The Michigan Contemporary offers 15 awards, all with monetary prizes. Winning an award is highly competitive, with selections made by the juror, MMA staff, and local arts organizations. The top awards include:

  • Best of Show: $1,500
  • 2nd Place: $1,000
  • 3rd Place: $750
  • Honorable Mentions: $150 each
  • Director's Choice: $500
  • Curator's Choice: $500

Other awards, such as the Friends of Art Award and the West Michigan Potters Guild Memorial Ceramics Award, recognize excellence in specific artistic disciplines.

Showcasing Michigan’s Artistic Diversity

Interior of Muskegon Museum of Art displaying various artworks including paintings and a sculpture on pedestals. The walls are adorned with art depicting abstract and realistic themes.

The Michigan Contemporary Art Exhibition is a community favorite, celebrating a diverse range of media, including painting, sculpture, ceramics, textiles, photography, and installation. The artwork reflects themes and topics relevant to today’s culture, providing visitors with a glimpse into what influences Michigan artists now.