Hamilton Wood Type Artist Residencies (Currently Suspended)
Artist residency program at Two Rivers museum canceled; community calls for restoration and transparency in operations.
The Hamilton Wood Type & Printing Museum in Two Rivers, Wisconsin is facing significant backlash following the unexpected cancellation of its artist residencies program. The museum, dedicated to the preservation, study, production and printing of wood type, hosts a visiting artists program that showcases printers who have made significant contributions to the letterpress craft.
In early August 2025, the museum canceled artist IBé Crawley's residency with approximately one week's notice, citing only that they were 'reevaluating their initiatives.' The cancellation reportedly included a prohibition on Crawley using the facility even with payment of daily fees. This incident sparked broader community concerns about cancellations affecting other Black artists and artists of color.
The museum attributed the cancellations to a leadership transition requiring the board to manage day-to-day operations while seeking a new executive director. However, even after hiring new Executive Director Beth Kowalski, community members report that concerns remain unaddressed.
The Windgate Foundation, a 20-year supporter providing over $414,000 through an endowment, sent a letter in October 2025 stating the controversy had 'become a full-blown crisis,' resulting in approximately 25% loss of earned revenue. The foundation withheld future endowment payments pending executive committee resignations, restoration of canceled programming, and increased board diversity.
Community activists Desiree Aspiras and Jenn Graves launched a website and petition calling for board resignation and new leadership. Multiple presenters withdrew from the museum's annual Wayzgoose fundraiser, and organizers began postcard campaigns to major funders including the Reva and David Logan Foundation.
Artists and community members have expressed frustration with the lack of transparency and communication from museum leadership regarding program cancellations and future direction.