Morning EditionMay 15
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Meeting

MILWAUKEE ARTS BOARD Meeting

2026-05-12

Committee

MILWAUKEE ARTS BOARD

Summary

# Milwaukee Arts Board: What You Need to Know

The Milwaukee Arts Board is a 17-member city committee that supports the arts in Milwaukee through three main activities: giving out competitive grants to arts organizations, purchasing and commissioning public art for the city, and advising city leaders on how to incorporate art into new buildings and infrastructure projects. The board members are appointed by the Mayor and confirmed by the Common Council, and they serve three-year terms. Meetings are held monthly and are open to the public—you can call in virtually or attend in person.

Why this matters to Milwaukee residents: This board directly affects the arts funding and public art you see around the city. If you're an artist or run an arts organization, the board's grant programs can provide financial support for your work. If you care about what public art appears in Milwaukee—from sculptures to murals to installations—this board makes those decisions. The board also helps shape how new city buildings and projects incorporate artistic elements, which affects the overall look and feel of our neighborhoods.

What happens next: The board meets regularly throughout the year. Their next major deadline is the Sustaining Grant Program application deadline on March 24th (already passed), but they typically have multiple funding opportunities throughout the year. You can find current grant deadlines and meeting information on the Milwaukee Arts Board website or by contacting Sally Svetic at the Department of City Development (286-0739). If you want to attend a meeting or submit public comment, check the city's Legistar website for the latest agenda and call-in details.

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