2026 Public Art Award Winner to be Announced at April Ceremony

Milwaukee’s public art – from historic mosaics to contemporary murals -tells the story of the city’s people, values, and creative spirit. On April 15, 2026, the Milwaukee County Historical Society will celebrate this legacy at the 2026 Public Art Award Ceremony, where one exceptional work will be honored for its historical significance and community impact.

The ceremony will take place at the Milwaukee County Historical Society and is open to the public, with a cash bar beginning at 5:00 p.m. and the program starting at 5:45 p.m. The evening will feature remarks from jurors and the announcement of the 2026 Public Art Award recipient.

Presented by Janice and Stephen Marcus, the Public Art Award is in its second year and recognizes artworks that enhance Milwaukee’s landscape while fostering pride, belonging, and a deeper connection to the city’s shared story. A distinguished jury – Linda Marcus, John Riepenhoff, and Jeffrey Morin – reviewed nominations submitted by the community and selected four finalists that exemplify the power of public art to reflect Milwaukee’s identity.

Finalists for the 2026 Public Art Award

“Reflection of Memories” by Richard Haas
This mural, created in the trompe l’oeil hyper-realistic style, reflects Milwaukee’s architectural and cultural past by evoking buildings that are no longer part of the cityscape, including the Pabst Building, Lakefront Depot, and Gimbels. Through layered imagery, Haas invites viewers to see the city reflecting upon itself. Having spent part of his childhood in Milwaukee, Haas brings a personal sense of nostalgia to the piece, which has become widely recognized.

“We Are the Power of Society” by Amelia Bader
Commissioned by the Muslim community arts organization Fanana Banana, this vibrant mural stood out to jurors for its grassroots origins and strong community support. Funded and championed by the public, the work celebrates Milwaukee’s diversity and highlights the city as a welcoming home for immigrants. Visually striking and rich in symbolism, the mural amplifies the voice of the Muslim community and stands as a powerful statement of unity and pride.

“Birds of Knowledge of Good & Evil” by Magdalena Abakanowicz
Commissioned by the Woman’s Club of Wisconsin as a gift to the city, this sculpture by internationally acclaimed artist Magdalena Abakanowicz creates a contemplative and meditative space in the heart of downtown Milwaukee. Jurors were impressed by the Woman’s Club’s commitment to the long-term preservation of the work and by how the sculpture’s symbolism reflects the organization’s mission and civic values.

“People Helping People” by Edward Cathony

Completed in 1970, this large-scale mosaic mural has been on display for more than half a century at 803 W. Michigan Street, a site that is part of the new Iron District development. Crafted with distinctive TEGA ceramic tile manufactured by Milwaukee’s Allen-Bradley Company, the work reflects an important moment in mid-century modern public art and connects to Milwaukee’s industrial and design legacy. Commissioned by the Milwaukee Insurance Company, the mural’s message of cooperation and service continues to embody the city’s strong civic spirit and commitment to community care, even as the building’s future within the changing development remains uncertain.

Event Details

Public Art Award Ceremony
Location: Milwaukee County Historical Society, 910 N. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Drive
Date: April 15, 2026
Time: 5:00 – 7:00pm
Open to the public

During the ceremony, members of the jury will share insights into the selection process before the 2026 Public Art Award winner is announced. The Milwaukee County Historical Society invites the public to join artists, civic leaders, and community members for an evening celebrating the artworks that shape Milwaukee’s cultural landscape and help tell the story of the city.

The Milwaukee County Historical Society extends its sincere thanks to Janice and Stephen Marcus, whose generous support makes the Public Art Award possible.