Milwaukee County Historical Society Honors Reynaldo Hernandez’s Mural of Peace with Inaugural Janice and Stephen Marcus Public Art Award

MILWAUKEE, WI — The Milwaukee County Historical Society proudly announces that Reynaldo Hernandez’s Mural of Peace has been selected as the first recipient of the Janice and Stephen Marcus Public Art Award. The honor was presented during a well-received ceremony on April 16, 2025, at 910 N. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Drive, attended by more than 100 guests.

Located in the heart of Walker’s Point at 611 W. National Avenue, the Mural of Peace has stood since 1988 as a powerful symbol of unity, resilience, and cultural pride. Through vivid imagery and profound symbolism, the mural embodies Milwaukee’s spirit and legacy while honoring the unique identity of the city’s south side. “It reflects the hopes of a richly diverse community,” said juror Xela Garcia, “and inspires unity and pride in a way that continues to resonate across generations.”

Juror Jeffrey Morin, who presented the award, noted that the selection committee looked for works that not only beautify public space but engage and reflect community identity. He described the Mural of Peace as a conversation between past and future – a call to action in favor of harmony. With elements drawn from cultures across generations, the mural offers a powerful invitation to coexist with compassion and dignity.

The Janice and Stephen Marcus Public Art Award, newly established by MCHS, celebrates public artwork that reflects Milwaukee’s history, values, and sense of place. Made possible through the generous support of Janice and Stephen Marcus, the award was conceived by Janice Marcus, a passionate champion of Milwaukee’s exceptional art scene. Presented annually, the award recognizes works that not only enhance the city’s visual landscape but also deepen our understanding of its people and history.

“This mural is more than art. It’s a living piece of Milwaukee’s cultural heritage,” said Ben Barbera, Executive Director of the Milwaukee County Historical Society. “Reynaldo Hernandez’s mural remains a catalyst for connection and dialogue, reminding us of the powerful role public art plays in shaping civic identity.”

Nominations for the award were open to the public and evaluated by a distinguished panel of jurors: Jeffrey Morin, President of the Milwaukee Institute of Art and Design; Xela Garcia, Executive Director of Walker’s Point Center for the Arts; and Andy Nunemaker, renowned art collector and advocate. The award will be presented annually, celebrating public art that uplifts Milwaukee’s communities and tells their stories.

For more information about the award or the Milwaukee County Historical Society, visit www.milwaukeehistory.net.

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.