New murals promoting safe, alternative transportation options now line the windows along 27th Street in the comprehensive community center Concordia 27, thanks to a collaboration between Near West Side Partners (NWSP) and students from the Milwaukee Institute of Art and Design (MIAD).
MIAD professor, local artist, and Rev-Up MKE 2024 finalist Brad Bernard, along with MIAD students, created the murals on large, locally sourced metal canvases. The artwork depicts scenes aimed at advocating for safer streets and future transit solutions in Milwaukee.
In a true celebration of 27th Street, NWSP envisions these murals as fostering a sense of belonging and sparking increased resident engagement around pedestrian safety and transportation improvements in the area.
NWSP has additional plans to enhance the murals, including adding lighting to ensure they’re visible at night.
This project was made possible through funding from MobiliSE, a Milwaukee-based nonprofit dedicated to addressing transportation challenges across the city and Wisconsin. The funding was part of a grant from the American Association of Retired Persons (AARP) designed to improve community well-being.
The murals will also be showcased during Milwaukee’s upcoming Gallery Night MKE, Milwaukee’s original gallery hop event on Oct. 18 and 19. The experience invites attendees to enjoy the vast creative culture in Milwaukee, discovering local galleries, art and artists.
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