Artist Installed ArtPrize Memorial in Grand Rapids
The memorial honors five people killed by law enforcement and is located at Fountain Street Church.
Updated on Sept. 28, 2026 in Fine Art
Artist Alicia Tardy has installed a new memorial titled Say Their Names as part of the ArtPrize event in Grand Rapids. The piece features portraits of five individuals killed by law enforcement.
Why it matters
The installation seeks to foster community remembrance by encouraging residents to engage with the stories of the individuals depicted. Curators hope the space will prompt visitors to speak the names of those honored.
The installation at Fountain Street Church serves as one of 36 distinct ArtPrize entries hosted at the venue. It specifically memorializes five individuals killed by law enforcement.
The players
Alicia Tardy
She is an artist participating in the ArtPrize competition in Grand Rapids.
Fountain Street Church
This local Grand Rapids institution is serving as the exhibition host site for 36 ArtPrize entries.
The details
The exhibit features portraits of Breanna Taylor, Patrick Lyoya, Riley Doggett, Samuel Sterling, and Da'Quain Johnson. Attendees at the church are encouraged to contribute flowers, pictures, electric candles, and personal objects to the site.
Timeline
The installation process for the memorial began on Sunday, September 27, 2026.
The completed art installation is scheduled for public unveiling on October 4, 2026, at 7 p.m.
Industry Dynamics
This project follows a pattern set by the ArtPrize international art competition, as it utilizes the annual festival as a platform for public art expression. The exhibit highlights how artists leverage high-traffic cultural events to draw attention to local social justice issues.
Community members are invited to visit the installation at Fountain Street Church to contribute flowers or other personal items. The public can view the finalized, curated display starting on the evening of October 4.
The takeaway
This memorial creates a space for collective reflection within a major local festival. Visitors are encouraged to participate in the act of remembrance by contributing items that honor the lives lost.
What happens next
The completed memorial is set for an official unveiling ceremony on October 4, 2026, at 7 p.m.
Further reading
For more information on ongoing festival exhibits, visit the Fine Art section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by WOODTV.
