2026 Public Art Award - Milwaukee County
Milwaukee County Historical Society seeks nominations for public artworks that enrich cultural landscape and foster community engagement.
The Milwaukee County Historical Society is excited to announce the opening of nominations for the 2026 Public Art Award, generously presented by Janice and Stephen Marcus. Building on the success of last year's inaugural award, this honor recognizes public artworks that enrich Milwaukee County's cultural landscape, foster community engagement, and reflect the character and values of the neighborhoods they serve.
Community members are invited to submit nominations for public artworks, historic or contemporary, permanent or temporary, that have made an impact through creativity, accessibility, and connection to place. Nominated works will be evaluated by a prestigious panel of jurors including John Riepenhoff (Milwaukee-based artist and Executive Director of Sculpture Milwaukee), Linda Marcus (multidisciplinary artist and creative director of Saint Kate – The Arts Hotel), and Jeffrey Morin (award-winning artist and educator serving as president of MIAD).
The jury will assess submissions based on historical relevance, integration with surroundings, community impact, public engagement, and reflection of Milwaukee's shared values. Selected finalists and the award recipient will be celebrated at the Public Art Award Ceremony on April 15, 2026, at the Milwaukee County Historical Society.
Last year's award recognized the Mural of Peace by Reynaldo Hernandez. The Historical Society thanks the Marcus family for their continued support in celebrating Milwaukee's rich cultural and historical landscape.