Transformation, framed in 10 pieces, is a snapshot of the city of Milwaukee as it has

transformed over the years through a compilation of census data, work force, and

Milwaukee names with acknowledgement to the Native American Indians.

In each framed work, set behind conservation glass, a 4” low-relief, mixed-media work.

Using quilts as backdrop, shifting from dark blue to white as symbolic of Milwaukee’s

work force shifting from blue collar to white, trade beads are sewn, as markers of

Milwaukee’s settlements and relocations since 1836, taken from Milwaukee’s census

data.

Floating above this layer, a 3/8” sheet of Varia EcoResin in Sapling (green), referencing

the great and varied trees that were in abundance. The sheet material is CNC cut to

reveal, in absence, or negative space, the various names Milwaukee has had dating

back to the 1700’s. These names: Mahnawauk, Melleoki, Milouakik, Meneawkee,

Milowages, Meolaki, Minnawack, Milwacky, Milwaukie, and Milwaukee.

As the settlers came to see, Milwaukee’s landscape could be reshaped to suit its new

inhabitants. And as Milwaukee natives shaped the land, the land shaped them. It is this

symbiotic relationship, among others, that I am wanting to share, celebrate, and give

tribute to.

From sewn quilts, reflective of the water’s movement, to our diversity of people and

cultures, I see this snapshot of Milwaukee as one that immediately and quite literally

says, Milwaukee. But at the same time, and upon closer inspection, one with the

opportunity to teach and remind us of more.