ArtPrize 2026 Stainless Steel Sculpture “Persistence” by Ryan T. Schmidt
- May 1
- 2 min read
Updated: May 19
GRAND RAPIDS, MI — Contemporary artist Ryan T. Schmidt returns to ArtPrize 2026 with his newest work, Persistence—a striking stainless steel sculpture that captures the enduring strength of the human spirit through form, reflection, and structure.
Marking his 12th year participating in ArtPrize, Schmidt continues his multi-year exhibition at the Gerald R. Ford Presidential Museum, where his work has been featured since 2017. With Persistence, he shifts into sculptural expression using stainless steel to embody resilience through material itself: strong, enduring, and resistant to time and elements.
The sculpture’s polished surfaces interact dynamically with light and environment, reflecting both the physical surroundings and the viewer, creating a constantly evolving visual experience. Its form suggests motion and tension, as if shaped by continuous pressure and release, echoing the very nature of persistence: steady, unwavering progress despite resistance.
Through scale, balance, and reflective depth, Persistence invites viewers to see themselves within the work both literally and metaphorically. The mirrored steel becomes a conduit for introspection, asking audiences to consider how perseverance shapes identity, growth, and transformation over time.
In addition to the installation, guests can further engage with Schmidt’s work through curated experiences at SoulArt Gallery, including artist receptions and guided tours of his public art installations throughout the city during ArtPrize.
Persistence will be on view from September 17 through October 3 as part of ArtPrize 2026.
SoulArt Inc
(501) 613-7884
Last Year's Artprize Interview News Coverage
and his past Artprize "Tango Rosso" sculpture on the cover
Here's a map of the Gallery, Artprize visit, and Public art permanent installation all within walking distance in Downtown Grand Rapids!
Parking options: you may park inside the building of the Gallery. There are two parking entrances, one at Scribner Ave, the other is at Bridge St. You may also park at the Ford Museum.
Stay tuned for our Art Receptions and Curated Events during Artprize
ArtPrize is an annual international art competition and cultural event held in Grand Rapids, Michigan. It is 501c3 nonprofit organization that fundraises year-round to cover entire operating budget, including the over $600,000 awarded in prizes and distributed in grants to artists, curators, and educators.
Ryan Schmidt's Artprize Past Entries:
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