Shelby is proud to announce the launch of CarvePrize, a bold new community art experience inspired by Grand Rapids’ ArtPrize, but with a rugged Shelby twist. Building on the success of last year’s Chainsaw Carving Festival, CarvePrize will transform downtown Shelby into an open-air gallery of chainsaw-carved sculptures, attracting artists and visitors from across Michigan and beyond.
CarvePrize invites artists to submit sculptures created using chainsaws and woodcarving tools. These stunning works of art will be displayed throughout downtown Shelby, mounted on custom-designed concrete blocks with metal housings. The event begins May 1 and culminates in the Chainsaw Carving Festival in July, offering a months-long celebration of creativity, craftsmanship, and community spirit.
Voting will be interactive and accessible through a geo-fenced app or QR codes placed near each sculpture. This system encourages visitors to explore local businesses while casting their votes. Voting will remain open from the time of installation through the July festival, with winners announced during the festival’s closing ceremonies.
Artists will compete for significant cash prizes, including $5,000 for first place, $1,500 plus auction proceeds for second place, and $750 plus auction proceeds for third place. In addition to the competition, a silent auction will run throughout the event, allowing visitors to bid on sculptures. Proceeds from the auction will be shared between the artists and the festival.
With an upfront cost of $25,000, CarvePrize is actively seeking sponsors to help launch this exciting new tradition. Organizers believe the event will quickly become self-sustaining and will serve as a powerful tool to boost local businesses, attract tourism, and strengthen Shelby’s identity as a creative and welcoming community.
Community members, businesses, and supporters are encouraged to get involved. To learn more about CarvePrize or to explore sponsorship opportunities, contact Phil Morse at the village office by calling 231-861-4401.
