The Golden Rod Girls: Shakedown Street’s Inspiring ArtPrize Entry

This year’s ArtPrize in Grand Rapids has welcomed a familiar face to the local arts scene—Shakedown Street. Known for its eclectic vibe, dedication to spirituality and all things psychedelic, the shop has entered not one, but two compelling works into the competition, captivating both regulars and newcomers alike. While the beautiful mural on the back of the store has caught attention for its bold and intricate design, it’s the enchanting Golden Rod Girls that are turning heads across the city, leaving traces of inspiration wherever they’re found.

A Powerful Pair: Mural and Golden Rod Girls

Shakedown Street’s ArtPrize entries tell a shared story of creativity and feminine energy. The mural, which forms the backdrop of the shop, sets the tone with its bold strokes and vibrant colors—a reflection of the artistic spirit that permeates the Shakedown community. Complementing this mural is the second of their entries: The Golden Rod Girls.

These delicate, hand-crafted pieces, numbered 1/1000, have taken on a life of their own across the city. Each one, thoughtfully placed around Grand Rapids, adds an interactive element to Shakedown Street’s ArtPrize offering. The Golden Rod Girls were stashed in trees, flower beds, and beloved local landmarks in early September, creating a treasure hunt of sorts for art lovers.

The Golden Rod Girls: A Symbol of Transformation

The inspiration behind the Golden Rod Girls is rooted in nature—the life cycle of gall flies. But don’t worry, these art pieces won’t hatch any bugs. Instead, they’re designed to hatch inspiration, embodying the feminine power of creation and transformation. Each Golden Rod Girl is not just a piece of art but a symbol of growth, uniqueness, and empowerment.

With each Golden Rod Girl named and numbered, they feel like personal talismans. These creations encourage people to explore the city while discovering both the hidden beauty of Grand Rapids and the deeper message behind these symbolic figures.

Shakedown Street’s Contribution to ArtPrize

ArtPrize is all about connection—between artists, locals, and visitors—and Shakedown Street’s entries invite this connection in a special way. Whether admiring the vivid mural behind the shop or stumbling across a Golden Rod Girl tucked into a tree, art lovers are reminded of the beauty of discovery. The dual entries serve as a reflection of Shakedown Street’s essence: a celebration of creativity, community, and the transformative power of art.

As Grand Rapids continues to explore these pieces, the message is clear—art can surprise, inspire, and unite. Shakedown Street’s mural and the Golden Rod Girls have brought that message home to ArtPrize 2024 in a powerful way.

So, if you're walking the streets of Grand Rapids during this year’s ArtPrize, keep your eyes peeled. You never know where a Golden Rod Girl might be waiting to inspire you next.