World of Winter, the largest winter festival in the United States and Midwest, rolled into town earlier this month and will feature 30 art installations, 81 ice sculptures, 43 free events and 35 window installations in Downtown Grand Rapids through March 10.
In the pedestrian walkway, under the Gillette Bridge and on the west side of the Grand River, is a light-based display known as the “Grand Legacy Mural.” The walkthrough display created by artist Edwin Anderson is a 10-minute-long narration that talks in a loop 24/7 about the history of the Grand River.
At Ah-Nab-Awen Park, is the installation “Stargate.” Created by artist Chalk River Labs, the projection has two personalities, a sculpture by day, and a light projection by night. During nighttime hours, you can enjoy the magic of Stargate from 6 p.m. to 5 a.m.
Another light display is “Sonic Runway” which is displayed on top of the Gillette Bridge. This insulation is a corridor of strobe light rings and is meant to be synchronized to the speed of sound. Though a marvelous sculpture, the organizers of the event warn that the display itself will be harmful to those who suffer from epileptic seizures and other health problems due to the strobe light display. Artists Rob Jensen, Warren Trezevant, and tour producer Creos are behind this piece which was on display at the Burning Man Festival in 2016.
An inflatable gem was also on display at Ah-Nab-Awen Park. The installation “Night Walkers” sits outside on the field in front of the Gerald R. Ford Presidential Museum. Created by artists, Amigo and Amigo, the display features eight colorful inflatable toads that range in size. The toads are on display 24/7.
On top of the Blue Bridge are three large and colorful Mastodons made from metal and safety glass. Known as “Permafrost,” the sculpture itself has been known as the “sleeping giant” of climate change. This is due to permafrost itself, being a permanent frozen layer beneath the earth’s surface which contains rock and soil. The installation is by artist Fisheye and is on display 24/7.
For more information and to see more of the sculptures and installations on display in the city, go to this website. While the event is free, organizers encourage the visitors to check the website frequently for updates as weather and other factors may affect the art installation viewing.
