1. Black Cat Alley (various artists)
SOPHIE YUFA, JUNIOR DESIGNER
When I think about murals in Milwaukee, my first thought is Black Cat Alley (E. Ivanhoe Pl.) on the East Side. The alley is decorated with numerous murals and has new additions every now and then. You’d think the art is all local but it’s actually compiled of works by artists from around the globe, not just Milwaukee! Its level of interaction, accessibility and versatility (to be used as a location for music happenings, photo shoots, skateboarding, etc.) is what sets BCA apart from other mural spots around the city to me.
2. Mural of Peace by Reynaldo Hernandez
ARCHER PARQUETTE, MANAGING EDITOR
I live south of the city, so whenever I drive into Milwaukee, I pass this giant, bright eagle on the interstate (611 W. National Ave.). One of the most recognizable murals around, it serves as an announcement that you have entered the 414, and I find that invigorating. “You are the eagle now,” I whisper to myself, before making high-pitched eagle calls and clawing at the wheel as though it were freshly caught prey. This often disturbs passengers in my car, who frankly are already disturbed by my awkward conversation and offensive body odor, but I do not care, for the spirit of Peace lives riotously in my aquiline heart.
It’s time to pick your Milwaukee favorites for the year!
3. Giannis by Mauricio Ramirez
MELISA MACKEVICIUS, ACCOUNT EXECUTIVE
My favorite mural in Milwaukee is the Giannis Antetokounpo mural designed by Mauricio Ramirez (600 E. Wisconsin Ave.). Giannis is larger than life – in this installation and all that he has accomplished. He inspires so many from locals to visitors alike. I think this mural inspires hope to achieve whatever your dreams may be.
4. The Unsung Hero by Case Ma’claim
ABBY YEMM, ACCOUNT EXECUTIVE
My absolute fave was Mauricio Ramirez’s mural of Selena, that used to be in Walker’s Point. Since that was painted over (though he did a new Selena mural in Walker’s Point near Zócalo Food Truck Park), I’d say The Unsung Hero (320 E. Buffalo St.) in the Third Ward. The artistry is incredible, and it’s odd and unsettling. It’s got a European mural vibe that adds something cool and unexpected.
5. The Murals Along North Avenue in East Tosa (various artists)
CHRIS DROSNER, EXECUTIVE EDITOR
It’s probably more familiar than favorite, but I do really enjoy the series of colorful or otherwise dramatic murals on the businesses of North Avenue in East Tosa. They make otherwise mundane buildings beautiful.
6. Tejiendo Raíces by Isabel Castro
BRIANNA SCHUBERT, ASSOCIATE DIGITAL EDITOR
I wrote about Milwaukee muralist Isabel Castro a few years ago for Milwaukee Mag, and I can easily say her murals are some of my absolute favorites in the city. Of her work, I love Tejiendo Raíces (1023 S. Cesar E. Chavez Dr.) the most. It’s so beautiful, brightening up the whole block – and interviewing her about the symbolism and the attention to detail made it even more meaningful.
