Daily News
From Home Furnishing Business
Art Van Seeks Next Top Model
March 25,
2014 by in Furniture Retailing, Industry, Special Events 
Art Van Furniture is hosting a casting call with Nigel Barker, style icon and television host of "The Face", in the retailer's supermodel search contest.
Two grand prize winners will be selected at back-to-back Art Van Furniture Art of Style parties at its Warren, Mich., store April 16 and the next night at the company's Chicago-are store in Woodridge, Ill.
The contest is being held in conjunction with the debut of The April Issue, Art Van Furniture's new spring catalog, which was photographed by Barker.
"This is a dream come true opportunity for a fresh hometown star to be discovered and experience the glamorous world of high style, furniture and fashion," said Art Van Elslander, founder and chairman of Art Van Furniture. "When renowned photographer Nigel Barker focuses his lens on the winner, who knows, a new Midwest superstar may be born!"
Aspiring entrants over 18 can enter the contest through April 1 by uploading their photo and biographical information online. Three semi-finalists will be selected for each party based on photogenic qualities, and will participate in a runway competition. A panel of celebrity judges will include Van Elslander and Barker. Each prize winner will be featured in an upcoming Art Van Furniture advertisement, receive a $1,000 Art Van gift card and receive a framed, autographed photo taken by Barker at the event as a keepsake.
"I have spent a great deal of time in Michigan and Chicago and trust me, the women there are as striking, unique and photogenic as those in Hollywood or New York," Barker said. "Inner confidence helps women radiate beauty, and I can't wait to capture the essence of our winners."