“Portal to the Past” Historic Mural Goes Live in Milwaukee’s Third Ward
Renowned Milwaukee Artist John Kowalczyk Begins Painting Large-Scale Facade Celebrating the Makers, Merchants, and Rhythms of Commission House
Image from the Commission House Mural Committee.
MILWAUKEE, WI — Production has officially begun on “Portal to the Past,” a transformative public mural taking shape on the iconic Commission House building in Milwaukee’s Historic Third Ward. Designed by celebrated local artist John Kowalczyk, the large-scale installation translates over a century of neighborhood history into a single visual narrative. Kowalczyk is joined on site by talented Milwaukee artists Sara Bott and Drew York, who are assisting with the execution of the massive facade.
The Commission House Mural Committee selected Kowalczyk following an extensive search last summer. Out of more than a dozen interviewed artists, four finalists submitted concept renderings, with Kowalczyk’s vision unanimously rising to the top.
A graduate of the Milwaukee Institute of Art & Design (MIAD), Kowalczyk has spent nearly two decades defining the visual language of the city through murals, sculptures, and public art installations. Known for his signature layering techniques, vibrant patterns, and structural symmetry, Kowalczyk’s design for “Portal to the Past” features a striking dual perspective, offering distinct visual experiences whether viewed by pedestrians up close on the sidewalk or by commuters taking in the full sweeping narrative from a distance. Kowalczyk’s recent public work includes “Archaea,” a collaborative installation presented by Joy Engine and Fuzz Pop Workshop at Milwaukee’s lakefront.
“I was terrified and excited to start this behemoth of a mural,” said Kowalczyk. “It has been a year in the making and it will be my largest piece yet; it is truly an honor to leave my mark on Milwaukee’s skyline.”
The $153,000 project reaches this milestone thanks to a coalition of community backing. Anchored by a generous anonymous lead donor and a full paint donation from Wisconsin-based Hallman Lindsay Paints, the capital campaign reached its full funding goal.
“Selecting an artist to capture the soul of this corner was a deeply intentional process,” added Mary Schanning, member of the Commission House Mural Committee. “Thanks to our anonymous lead donor, Hallman Lindsay Paints, and every community member who contributed, ‘Portal to the Past’ ensures that the story of the makers, merchants, and music that built Milwaukee remains an indelible part of our skyline for generations to come.”
Painting will continue throughout the late summer, with community members and neighborhood visitors invited to watch Kowalczyk, Bott, and York bring the wall to life daily in the heart of the Third Ward. Follow daily progress and behind-the-scenes brushstrokes on Instagram @CommissionHouseMural.
ABOUT THE COMMISSION HOUSE MURAL PROJECT
The “Portal to the Past” capital campaign is a community-driven public art initiative dedicated to honoring the cultural and commercial heritage of Milwaukee’s Historic Third Ward through permanent, accessible visual storytelling.
NOTE: This press release was submitted to Urban Milwaukee and was not written by an Urban Milwaukee writer. While it is believed to be reliable, Urban Milwaukee does not guarantee its accuracy or completeness.
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