Third Ward to unveil four outdoor paintings during Gallery Night MKE

MILWAUKEE (CBS 58) -- Four new large-scale outdoor paintings will be unveiled in Milwaukee’s Historic Third Ward as part of Gallery Night MKE. The Historic Third Ward Association and the Milwaukee Institute of Art & Design have partnered to add these works to the neighborhood, according to a Thursday, Oct. 10 press release.

The unveiling will take place Friday, Oct. 18 with the 6-by-8-foot paintings displayed on exterior walls throughout the area. The artists -- MIAD alumni John Kowalczyk, Caroline Ferrero, Erin Eastham and current student Rachel McNeilly -- created pieces that they say aim to reflect themes of nature and community.

Kowalczyk’s "Foxes and Friends," sponsored by 333 Water, will be displayed at the Broadway Theatre Center. The artwork features local wildlife such as foxes and monarch butterflies. Kowalczyk commented on his work, "I believe in the power of art to connect, build
community and spread joy."

Ferrero’s "Flying Colors," sponsored by Tim and Sue Frautschi, will be shown at Ascension Third Ward. The painting brings together Wisconsin birds like the Robin and Northern Cardinal, symbolizing the diverse people who visit Milwaukee. Ferrero said, "It is the culture and community, bound by different colored swirls, that influence and inspire us to learn more about each other."

Eastham’s "Birds of Wisconsin and the Great Lakes," sponsored by Brian and Laura Montgomery, will be installed at MIAD. The piece showcases various bird species and waterfowl that frequent Milwaukee’s waterways and lakes.

McNeilly’s "Milwaukee Strong!," sponsored by the Krei Family, will be featured at Café Benelux. The artwork pays homage to Gertie the Duck, a symbol of hope in Milwaukee during World War II.

For more information about Gallery Night MKE, click here.