Rise Up is rapidly expanding its network, bringing together a diverse collective of artists from various disciplines. By fostering a supportive community, providing ample resources, and promoting collaborative projects, Rise Up enables artists to thrive creatively and professionally. The organization’s commitment to inclusivity and innovation has attracted talent from all over, creating a vibrant and dynamic environment where artists can exchange ideas, inspire one another, and collectively push the boundaries of their crafts. This growth not only enhances the individual artist’s journey but also enriches the cultural landscape, making art more accessible and impactful to a broader audience.
OUR ARTIST COLLECTIVE
Mary Thao
Wausau, WI
Mary Thao is a professional muralist celebrated for her ethereal and dreamlike artistic style. Her murals, characterized by their soft hues and fluid forms, create immersive environments that transport viewers into otherworldly realms. Thao's work often explores themes of nature, HMong culture, and the human experience, blending elements of fantasy and reality in a way that captivates and inspires. Her ability to evoke emotion through delicate brushstrokes and intricate details has earned her a dedicated following and numerous commissions in both public and private spaces. Through her art, Thao invites viewers to pause, reflect, and connect with the transcendent beauty of her creations and murals.
Stefanie Sladky
Wausau, WI
Stefanie Sladky is an accomplished artist and the owner of Stefanie Sladky Design, renowned for her nature-inspired murals and intricate mandalas. Since joining Rise Up in 2017, Sladky has created numerous vibrant and mesmerizing pieces that seamlessly blend the beauty of the natural world with the meditative patterns of mandalas. Her work, often characterized by its vivid colors and detailed designs, evokes a sense of tranquility and connection to the earth. Through her artistic endeavors, Sladky not only beautifies spaces but also encourages mindfulness and appreciation for the environment. Her dedication to her craft and unique artistic vision have made her a prominent figure in the muralist community.
Lenn Soderlund
Madison, WI
Raised in Wausau, Wisconsin, my passion for design took root early and led me to UW-Stout, where I immersed myself in industrial design. My journey began in Madison at a product development firm, where I learned new skills and broadened my horizons. Adventure called, and I answered by moving to Boulder, Colorado, to explore packaging in the natural food industry. Then, I took a deep dive into the tech world, working on cutting-edge projects in robotics and health-tech.
Now back in Madison, I’m thrilled to be in the Midwest again, surrounded by the sense of community and strong work ethic I love. I don't have much of an artist statement, because every project needs its own perspective. I do appreciate authentic design — pretty pictures are great, but it’s the compelling visual storytelling that connects us.
Mau
Southeast WI
I am a queer, Indigenous, Mexican American artist and scholar based out of Southeast Wisconsin. My artistic work explores a variety of themes, many circling back to indigenous spirituality, chronic illness, mental health awareness, and political injustice. Painting is my home but I love to work with mixed media and experiment with new skills/mediums. My goal is to promote healing through creative means.
Stephon Keba Freeman
Stevens Point, WI
Stephon Keba Freeman is a professional muralist and the owner of KibA Freeman Art, a renowned art studio known for its vibrant and thought-provoking murals. With a unique blend of contemporary spray paint and traditional styles, Freeman has transformed countless spaces, infusing them with his creative vision and cultural narratives. His work often reflects themes of community, identity, and social justice, making a significant impact on the neighborhoods he beautifies. Through KibA Freeman Art, Freeman not only showcases his artistic talents but also fosters a deeper appreciation for public art, encouraging conversations and connections within the communities he serves. Stephon lives in Stevens Point, Wisconsin with his wife and daughter. His whole reason for beautifying public spaces is for a better place for his family.
Billy Roberts
Wausau, WI
I am a Potawatomi /Mi’kmaq multidisciplinary artist raised in Chicago with roots in the hip-hop culture there. My art reflects my Native American heritage with a unique diversified modern day twist. I love to use our traditional tribal designs while incorporating urban elements such as graffiti lettering with bright colors and abstract motifs. My style is ever evolving and I'm constantly pushing it forward in search of new methods to express myself. Today I mainly work with acrylics and aerosol paint but would love to explore new techniques and other art forms like sculpting and jewelry making. My style is all my own and painting for me is like a ceremony giving me the opportunity to share my vision with the world. I hope one day my art inspires others to create and stay connected with one another beautifying the world around us all.
Lukas Bagemehl
Sheboygan, WI
As a creator my work explores many styles. Modern contemporary, Abstract, pop culture, art deco. And a little bit of realism. Going with the flow and letting my creativity out is how I really express myself. It ends up being a whole meditative process. Once I’m in it I don’t realize but it’s like I’m on a cloud or on top of the world so to speak. It feels so good when I get to that point of creating. My mind goes completely silent and I’m just creating it in the moment. Every movement and splash of color creates an energy that I can’t put into words. Which is why I love creating art work and being able to share it with the world.
Olivia Majernik
Wausau, WI
Olivia Majernik is a talented artist and muralist who has been a vital part of Rise Up since 2019. Her artwork primarily focuses on animals and nature, bringing to life the intricate beauty and vitality of the natural world. Majernik's murals, often large in scale and rich in detail, capture the essence of wildlife and the environments they inhabit. Her use of color and texture creates a dynamic visual experience that engages and inspires viewers. Through her work with Rise Up, Majernik has contributed to numerous public art projects, transforming urban spaces into vibrant showcases of nature's splendor. Her dedication to depicting the harmony and diversity of the natural world has made her a cherished artist within the community.
Interested in becoming an paid artist. We are continuing to expand the collective with more muralists, industrial artists, fiber artists, and other sculpture mediums for future public art projects in Central Wisconsin. Do you live in the area? Email portfolio and resume to Program Coordinator, Jacquelyn Tolksdorf at art@riseupart.org.
© 2024 • Rise Up Central Wisconsin, Inc is a tax-exempt 501(C)(3) nonprofit organization.
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