Tradition on the Line, is exhibited at the library on the south wall in the media area near the elevator.

The Waukesha Public Library Board’s goal is to enhance the community’s quality of life through art. Waukesha Public Library provides an exceptional setting for exhibiting works of art. These works, accessible to all citizens, inspire joy, provoke thought, and reflect the nature of our community.

Collection

The current collection represents a community commitment to the fine arts and serves as a statement of the pride that the citizens of Waukesha feel for their library.

The following works are on display:

• Sensing the Whole
• Serenade
• Evolution of Expression
• Tradition on the Line
• Word Work/Waukesha
• Garden House I and Garden House II
• Waukesha Cityscapes I,II, & III
• Soul Mates
• Bringing Them Home
• Haying
• Giant Bone From Widow Fischer's Quarry
• Untitled
• Festival of the Spirit

Public Art Committee

A Public Art Committee has been established by the Board. They are charged with overseeing all aspects of the collection, and their recommendations are subject to final approval by the Library Board.

Selection Criteria

All art selections are based on the criteria set forth in the Public Art Policy approved by the Library Board. Members of the Committee, appointed by the President of the Board, may include representation from the Board, Library staff, the Friends of Waukesha Public Library, and the art community, as well as citizens interested in the Library’s art collection.

Public Art Funding

The cost of the public art has been funded with private dollars donated by community members and by the Friends of the Waukesha Public Library. If you would like to make a tax deductible donation to the Public Art Fund, you can click here to find a donation form. Completed forms and donations may be dropped off at the Library or mailed to:

Rotating Art Collection

The Waukesha Public Library offers a gallery wall for Waukesha County artists to display two dimensional works of art. These works will complement the art on permanent display on the Library’s first floor. A different artist or group of artists will be featured on a rotating schedule.

The collection to be coordinated by the Library’s Public Art Committee seeks to: present a variety of works by local artists, help local artists increase their public exposure, and promote art throughout Waukesha City and County.

Interested artists need to complete the Application for Gallery Space, also available at the Reference Desk. Please contact Administrative Assistant Joan Quinlan at (262) 524-3694 or jquinlan@waukesha.lib.wi.us for more information.