06/19/2026
Press Release
June 19, 2026
On June 18, 2026, Grand Rapids City Manager Mark Washington visited the Grand Valley Artists (GVA) Gallery and Studio space to have his portrait drawn and painted by its members. “I was unaware of your history,” stated Mr. Washington after Jesús M. Solis, the current president of the non-profit organization, revealed that GVA has been in existence since 1957 and it’s considered the oldest running organization in Michigan. Mr. Solis also highlighted the current challenges and lack of support from the city at large, including the absence of a Grand Rapids Art Council, the cancellation of the Arts Festival, and the reduction of State and Federal grants towards community-based arts.
When Mr. Washington inquired about the Art Prize, Solis shared his experience during the first three years of its creation. He quickly discovered the accumulated expenses faced by starving artists with limited returns. Mr. Washington was invited to GVA as a guest model by Mr. Solis, following his attendance at the Grand Rapids Neighborhood Summit. This gesture of collaboration was intended to reach out to the city at large and bring back the necessary value for art and culture to our society.
To our surprise, Mr. Washington invited one of his City consultants to engage in a conversation while he posed for an allocated hour. The GVA members were honored to witness the exchange of the art dialogue. This was a unique experience for Mr. Washington, his consultant, and all of the GVA artists present.
Following the sketch session, Mr. Washington was presented with a watercolor sketch by DeLaine Klar, which he expressed a desire to frame. GVA was deeply grateful for Mr. Washington’s time and consideration, despite his busy schedule.
The attached photographs were taken by Mr. Solis and have been approved for public release. For further information on GVA, please visit our website at: grandvalleyartists.org
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