I arrived in Grand Rapids today about noon and met Marissa Malson, my contact at the Grans Rapid Griffins. She and I agreed where I would set up my temporary studio/tent then she filled me in on details about my parking spot, restrooms, and security issues. I then went to get my ArtPrize name badge and goody bag at the artists' lounge area and had lunch. After lunch I set up my tent and walls and organized my display, storage area, and work area. Because the windows in the Griffin's offices, where I am to display my work, were so dirty, I asked Marissa if it would be OK if I washed them. She and I obtained the tools and materials needed to do the job. I washed the first set of windows inside and out but I decided to wait to wash the second set of windows until I know that I will need more space. I then finished buttoning up the tent by adding the front outside wall and zippering the corners. About 6:15 PM, I headed to Jenison to find the home of my host couple.
Joe Sukup called about 8 PM to confirm our lunch and his portrait setting for tomorrow, He has the appointment for my first official ArtPrize Seven portrait. Marissa previously told me that she and a few of her Griffins colleagues were planing to have me paint their portraits sometime during ArtPrize. It was a beautiful but tiring day and I'm looking forward to painting tomorrow.