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 January 2 - 31, 2026 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 panel of esteemed jurors:
• John Riepenhoff, Milwaukee-based artist, curator, and Executive Director of Sculpture Milwaukee, known for founding The Green Gallery, co-founding the Milwaukee International and Dark Fairs, and creating sustainable platforms for artist-led projects through The Open Fund and the Beer Endowment.
• Linda Marcus, multidisciplinary artist focused on fiber and sculpture, whose work explores memory, identity, and domesticity. She is also a writer for Artdose Magazine and creative director and co-creator of Saint Kate - The Arts Hotel.
• Jeffrey Morin, award-winning artist and educator, returning as a juror for the second year, brings nearly 40 years of higher-education and community-based arts experience, serving as president of MIAD and supporting creative access and interdisciplinary programming.
The jury will assess submissions based on historical relevance, integration with surroundings, community impact, public engagement, and reflection of Milwaukee’s shared values.
Eligibility Criteria
To be considered, artwork must:
• Be located within Milwaukee County
• Be publicly accessible (private or restricted works are not eligible)
• Be permanent or temporary and accessible through June 1, 2026
• Be eligible for nomination by the artist themselves
• Include work by international or national artists if located in Milwaukee County and meeting the above criteria