What happens when creativity meets craftsmanship? You get “Rose”—a welded horse sculpture turning heads at ArtPrize, one of the largest international art competitions in the world.
Created by second-year students in the Welding Program at Wilson Talent Center, this collaborative piece is the handiwork of Elijah Dingwell (Holt), Dakota Barnett (Dansville), and Holden Klem (Williamston). The trio spent countless hours transforming horseshoes, scrap metal, and their own inspiration into something powerful, elegant, and unforgettable.
The result: a life-sized horse that embodies movement, muscle, and meticulous attention to detail. “Rose” now stands proudly on display at the Gerald R. Ford Presidential Museum in Grand Rapids, representing not only the skill of young tradespeople but also the value of career and technical education in Michigan.
Visitors to ArtPrize can vote for “Rose” (Vote ID 94280) and experience the sculpture in person from September 18 to October 4, 2025. This marks a milestone for both the Wilson Talent Center and the students involved—bringing local talent to a global stage and proving that art and industry can go hand-in-hand.
From classroom sparks to ArtPrize fame, this is one project that’s already left a lasting hoofprint.
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With vision, grit, and sparks flying—three Ingham County students crafted more than just a sculpture. They built a legacy. Meet “Rose,” the life-sized welded horse galloping into the national spotlight at ArtPrize 2025.
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