Public Art Award

Milwaukee is a city shaped by its rich history, vibrant culture, and a legacy of artistic innovation. Public art, from bronze historical markers to vivid contemporary murals, captures the creative spirit that embodies the passion and resilience of our community. It plays a pivotal role in shaping the identity and character of our neighborhoods, transforming ordinary spaces into iconic cultural landmarks.

In keeping with the Milwaukee County Historical Society’s mission to collect, preserve, and promote our county’s history, we established an award to recognize public art that holds exceptional historical significance. This award highlights public art that not only enhances our community’s landscape but also fosters a sense of pride and belonging, serving as a testament to our shared history and identity.

Public Nominations

The collaborative nature of public art – where artists work hand-in-hand with the community- ensures these works genuinely reflect local values and the unique character of the neighborhoods they inhabit. Because of this deep connection, public involvement is essential in identifying the most meaningful and impactful pieces of public art in Milwaukee County.

We invite community members to submit nominations for public artworks that embody our shared values and tell the story of who we are. Nominations will be accepted from 9:00 a.m. on January 2 through January 31, 2026.

All submissions will be reviewed by a distinguished jury representing both artistic vision and historical perspective:
Linda Marcus, multidisciplinary Milwaukee-based artist whose work explores memory, identity, and domesticity; writer for Artdose Magazine and creative director and co-creator of Saint Kate Arts Hotel;
John Riepenhoff, Milwaukee-based artist, curator, and cultural organizer who leads Sculpture Milwaukee; and
Jeffrey Morin, award-winning artist, educator, and strategist with nearly 40 years of higher-education leadership at MIAD.

Together, they will evaluate nominated works based on historical relevance, integration with surroundings, community impact, public engagement, and how strongly they reflect Milwaukee’s identity.

Top nominations will be celebrated at the Public Art Award Ceremony on April 15, 2026, at the Milwaukee County Historical Society, where this year’s honoree will be announced. The community is warmly invited to attend.

We look forward to seeing your nominations and celebrating the public art that helps shape our shared sense of place!

Eligibility Criteria

To be considered for this award, the artwork must meet the following:

• Located within Milwaukee County.
• Accessible to the public (private work will not be considered).
• The artwork can be permanent or temporary, historical or contemporary, but must be accessible until at least June 1, 2026.
• There is no size requirement.
• Artists and creators are allowed to nominate their own work.
• Artwork by international or national artists may be considered if it is located within Milwaukee County and meets the above guidelines.

2025 Public Art Award

Last year’s Public Art Award jurors—Jeffrey Morin, Marcela Garcia, and Andy Nunemaker—selected three outstanding finalists: Sherman Park Rising by Tia Richardson, celebrating the resilience of the Sherman Park community; Green Flow by Pamela Scesniak, honoring Brady Street’s rich history; and Mural of Peace by Reynaldo Hernandez, a vibrant tribute to the diversity of Milwaukee’s South Side and the award’s winner.

The 2025 Public Art Award was generously sponsored by Janice and Stephen Marcus. The Historical Society extends heartfelt thanks to the Marcus family for their support, underscoring their commitment to celebrating Milwaukee’s cultural and historical vibrancy.

Click here for images of the 2025 Public Art Award Ceremony.