Janice and Stephen Marcus Public Art Award

The Milwaukee Historical Society presents the
Janice and Stephen Marcus Public Art Award

Award Announcement and Ceremony 

Wednesday April 16th, 2025
5pm-7pm

Milwaukee County Historical Society
910 N Doctor M.L.K. Jr Dr, Milwaukee, WI
Free and Open to the public.

Please join us! The mural 'Sherman Park Rising' is one of three finalists in this inaugural award presented by the Milwaukee County Historical Society! From January 1st through the 31st, they invited the public to submit nominations for public art that reflects the values and unique character of the Milwaukee community. The winner will be announced during the ceremony.

 

Sherman Park Rising was selected for its deep connection to the community. The mural acknowledges the challenges faced by the neighborhood, and is a powerful symbol of rebirth and community working together for a brighter future. This mural was commissioned by the City of Milwaukee Department of Neighborhood Services in collaboration with Safe and Sound, Inc. and involved over 150 participants in the design and painting process, led by Tia Richardson. The process included community design workshops that were foundational for the design. 

 

The project was documented in numerous print and media outlets, including the short film, 'Sherman Park Rising', which screened at the Beloit International Film Festival, and for many K-12 classrooms, youth organizations, grassroots groups and conferences around the U.S. You can experience the journey by watching it here: http://www.cosmic-butterfly.com/2020/06/sherman-park-rising.html

 

Eligible submissions were evaluated by a prestigious panel of jurors based on historical relevance, integration with surroundings, community impact, public engagement, and how well the artwork reflects local values and character. Learn more about the jurors and award here: 

 https://milwaukeehistory.net/2025awards/public-art-award/

Parking and Accessibility

The Milwaukee County Historical Society is handicap accessible. Elevators are available to access the second floor. Handicapped accessible doors are located on the east side of the building. Additionally, a vehicle drop-off /loading zone is accessible on W. Kilbourn Avenue.

For $10 you can park in the 847 N. Plankinton Ave. Lot (at the corner of Plankinton Ave. and Kilbourn Ave.) for up to 5 hours. There is also plenty of street parking on Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Drive.